Cynthia Erivo delivered a breathtaking performance as Jesus in the revival of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ at the Hollywood Bowl, magical enough to establish the messiah as a queer Black woman, resonating deeply with the audience.
Many in attendance suspected this innovative portrayal all along, making the evening a transformative experience.
The production, which took place last weekend, attracted crowds reminiscent of a significant gathering, with attendees bringing picnic baskets filled with refreshments, much like those you’d see at a grand Sicilian wedding.
A humorous remark by an audience member highlighted the excitement surrounding the event, quipping, ‘What is this, the Second Coming?’
Erivo, alongside Adam Lambert as Judas, drew in large fan bases, ensuring the evening was electrifying.
This version of the musical, originally released in 1971 by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, felt more akin to a rock concert than a traditional theater performance, showcasing the story’s immense popularity and cultural resonance.
The revival proudly returned to the roots of its concept album origins, echoing the same countercultural themes found in other musicals from that era, like ‘Hair’ and ‘Godspell.’
‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ not only displayed Lloyd Webber’s early revolutionary spirit but also effectively addressed challenging themes of doubt, vulnerability, and rebellion against conformity.
What set ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ apart was its bold choice to present Jesus not just as a divine figure but as a relatable person facing severe struggles, amplified by the powerful rock score that accompanied the narrative.
Director and choreographer Sergio Trujillo embraced the musical’s rock concert nature, utilizing metallic scaffolding for staging and impressive projections, allowing the performance to transcend literal interpretations.
The intensity of the performances communicated the story’s spiritual undertones, with Erivo and Lambert delivering every note with passion and authenticity.
The emotional depth of their duets transcended mere singing, showcasing a profound connection that enhanced the overall storytelling.
In their interactions, Erivo’s all-seeing Jesus and Lambert’s conflicted Judas highlighted the rich contrasts within the narrative.
In pivotal moments like ‘Strange Thing Mystifying’ and ‘The Last Supper,’ both performers demonstrated their distinct yet harmonious musical styles, revealing a Judas grappling with his choices and a Jesus fully aware of the unfolding destiny.
Phillipa Soo, as Mary Magdalene, offered an intimate portrayal that added emotional resonance.
Her performance in ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him’ was particularly moving, capturing the intricate and tender bond between Mary Magdalene and Jesus.
Notably, Soo’s exceptional acting prowess in ‘Hamilton’ translated into her support role in this production, complemented by a talented ensemble cast.
Raúl Esparza, known for his remarkable performances, brought a touch of political scheming to his role as Pontius Pilate.
The comedic edge provided by Josh Gad, who brilliantly reimagined King Herod, added a unique flair to the performance, resonating with modern audiences.
The musical direction, led by Stephen Oremus, ensured the production maintained high musical standards, masterfully blending the energetic rock score with emotional depth.
Erivo’s generous performance style fostered a collaborative environment, enhancing her castmates’ confidence and overall performance quality.
As the narrative progresses towards Jesus’ inevitable suffering, Erivo’s portrayal in the ‘Gethsemane’ number captivated the audience, ultimately providing an enriching theatrical experience.
This modern yet timeless interpretation of Jesus, complete with piercings and tattoos, connected with audiences on a visceral level, embracing diverse interpretations of faith and humanity.
Lloyd Webber is experiencing a renaissance in recent years, with new interpretations of classics like ‘Sunset Boulevard’ and ‘Evita’ gaining traction.
Trujillo’s version of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ deserved not only a longer run but deeper exploration of the relationships portrayed onstage.
The dynamic interplay between Erivo’s Jesus and Soo’s Mary Magdalene sets a benchmark for how interpersonal conflicts can elevate the narrative experiences in musical theater.
This production serves as a vibrant reminder of how ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ can blend profound themes of humanity with exhilarating rock performances, marking a night at the Hollywood Bowl that will long be remembered.
image source from：latimes
