‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ review
‘To miss out on Jesus Christ Superstar would be the mistake of a lifetime.’
Mesmerising, powerful and dynamic, Trevelyan College Musical Society’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar is nothing short of a masterpiece. From beginning to end, the audience is riveted by the divine retelling of Jesus’ last seven days from Gethsemane to his crucifixion, all from the perspective of Judas, his friend and betrayer. A tale about friendship, freedom, and ambition, the production resurrected the humanity in these sacred figures.
Director Ben Cawood, assisted by Robyn Bradbury, had a clear vision for this show. The two present the musical from a dystopian lens, an innovative take that both honoured and revitalised the original musical. Their dedication is evident in every aspect of the production particularly exemplified by their use of the space which showed great consideration for the environment of Trevelyan College Dining Hall. Their precise blocking, specifically during the scenes where the characters are amongst the audience was very clean. Bringing the characters out to the audience, such as Caiaphas on the balcony, and the disciples/protesters in the aisles, created an immersive atmosphere for the audience, involving them in this tale about the human struggle for liberty.
Their vision is set alight by the creative minds behind the scenes. Headed by the Production Manager Luna Oladiji, the show ran effortlessly. Upon entry, the soul-stirring set, designed by Alex Tyler, captured the audience and brought them into the dystopian world. This is only enhanced by the vibrant lighting design, a credit to Theo Nellis, which created a simultaneously ominous yet ethereal atmosphere. The opening sequence with the characters washed in a dark red reflected how the lighting was used to mesh the line of good and evil in the show. I would be foolish to not mention the cross. It was used so exquisitely with a team effort from the cast who placed Jesus centrally so the visual of Jesus alone on stage was incredibly poignant. Whilst there were some slight technical issues with mics during the first act and first number of act two, the vocal masterclass from the cast shone through with the help of the sound team.
It is no small feat to perform a musical that is entirely sung, specifically one packed full with so many genres and styles. The live band, musically directed by Niamh Connellan, were glorious. They were exemplary in conquering every challenge in front of them from big rock ballads from the opening ‘Heaven On Their Minds’ to the softer ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him.’ The ‘Trial before Pilate (Including the 39 Lashes)’ was an exceptional example of the cast and band coming together in cohesion.
Every member of the cast was heavenly on the stage. As an ensemble, they were a distinct unity, creating a harmonious atmosphere that few can achieve. Each actor performed their choreography with skill and precision but there were times when the choreography didn’t match the intense moments and lost its impact alongside the pristine vocals.
Harry Threapleton leads this cast as the eponymous ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ and it is obvious to the entire audience that Threapleton belongs on stage. In a physically and vocally demanding role, he commanded the space, balancing being an inspiring leader with being vulnerable and afraid of the power he wields. His final moments on stage were heart-wrenching as he stood on the cross staring out at the audience. Seb Powell as the fiery Judas is the perfect foil for Threapleton’s Jesus. His opening number, a ferocious performance, set the tone for the audience; as the show progressed, his performance only flourished more. The weight of his betrayal and his guilt, which Powell expertly builds throughout, is encompassed in his grief-stricken performance of ‘Judas’ Death’ which left the audience aching as he was carried off stage.
The angelic Anna Pile is beautifully in contrast to the leads as she leant herself impeccably to Mary’s vulnerability which leaves the audience only wanting more of her. Taking on an emotionally complex character is not easy, yet Pile’s performance was seamless. Bethan Crotty’s performance as Simon was glorious as she worshipped Jesus with champion vocal ability that stunned the room. Her unrelenting devotion to her leader, clear from her tone and her use of physicality whilst performing, made it difficult to tear your eyes away from her on stage.
Every character was dressed to perfection. The costume for each disciple was individual - a credit to the meticulous vision of the directors. From the reveal of the spray-painted revolt t-shirts to the clear image of prison and prisoner with the guards and Jesus, the costumes only enhanced the dystopian immersion of the piece.
A revelatory experience from start to finish that left the audience in mouth-opening awe. To miss out on Jesus Christ Superstar would be the mistake of a lifetime.
By Lauren Williams.