The Redcliffe Musical Theatre Production of Andrew Lloyd Webbers Jesus Christ Superstar has completely left audience members robustly cheering whilst ascending from their seats in appreciation of this spectacular local production.
The main cast members consisting of Jeandre Le Roux as Jesus, Erickson Ilustre as Judas, Stephanie Collins as Mary Magdalene, Jonathan Johns as Pilate and Kuna Smith as Simon Peter, were supported by an amazing local cast of performers as they enthusiastically brought the production to life. Whilst Act 2 section 6 consisting of Jake Hollingsworth who plays King Herod, completely stole the show by winning over the audience with his cheeky musical performance of King Herod’s Song.
Jeandre Le Roux who plays Jesus arrived on stage to both cheers and applause showing a respectful amount of acknowledgement from his fanbase within the audience and sharing with us his skills as a Tenor. Jeandre’s outstanding vocal ability shone as he progressed through each song as Jesus, projecting his vocals to each audience member.
An outstanding performance was given by Stephanie Collins as Mary Magdalene performing the classic ballad “I Don’t Know How To Love Him”. As an avid fan of the song for many years, I was engulfed in goosebumps with the tone and passion of the performance. The vocals of the support cast excelled and effectively aided each of the main cast as a fully functioning team whilst also providing effective dance performances and highlighting the true meaning of live musical theatre.
Due to the setting and the historical elements of the storyline the use of smoke and simple yet effective use of beige and khaki outfits for the costumes, represented the time period of the story as this was believed based on the visuals whilst effectively showing emotions via carefully crafted dramatic expressions. The Last Supper settings were simplified with the Apostles, Jesus and a very sparce table setting which considering when the storyline was set, was perfectly situated within the stage.
Set design was kept in a simplistic design of metal platforms and higher situated balcony’s in order to showcase the performers and not have a focus on fancy over designed pieces which based on the storyline was not in a need to be overly occupying of the stage space.
Lighting highlighted different sections of the production which in turn allowed the main performers to be thrust into the spotlight allowing them to shine when it was their turn to tell their story. The music was provided by a band consisting of modern day pieces such as electric guitar, drums, flute and a percussion section which made a highly effective impact for dramatic pieces of the storyline.
Although a modern day rendition of an original much loved London musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice it has since its first stage incarnation on 12 October 1971 at The Mark Hellinger Theatre in London made an impact for many decades around the world with its cast carefully crafting the drama and cruelty of the past.
Jesus Christ Superstar is a theatre must-see.
To book tickets to Jesus Christ Superstar, please visit https://www.redcliffeentertainmentcentre.com.au/.
