THE character Caiaphas sums it up: "One thing I'll say for him, Jesus is cool."
With biblical accuracy put aside in places and rocky musical interjections, this interpretation portrays Jesus as the ultimate superstar.
It's one of Lloyd Webber's most ambitious projects. Where he succeeds is in the realisation of emotions through his distinctive composition. The audience feels the conflicts in Jesus as a man and as Son of God. Despite his status he has vulnerabilities. The scene where he is overwhelmed by people begging for his help is particularly effective as he is pulled in all directions. Judas and Pontius Pilate in particular, face their own turmoil, ultimately leading to tragedy. We all know how it ends. That doesn't make the crucifixion any less horrific or the show any less powerful.
Jesus Christ Superstar runs until July 30.
Review by LOUISE BARNSLEY
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