Jesus Christ Superstar, WAOS - Witham

By Guest Reviewer- Christine Davidson

It is always a pleasure to come and review a production at Witham. With a great front of house you feel welcome the moment you walk through the doors.

This Spring they chose Jesus Christ Superstar by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. Originally introduced as a Concept Album, it opened in Broadway in 1971 and in the West End in 1972. The story is mostly narrated by Judas – the fabulous Michael Bardo who I have seen many times before. With his rock style vocals he absolutely held the stage. In his black leather outfit he definitely looked and acted the role and nailed the vocally challenging score.

Tom Pleasant as Jesus was a sensation. What a vocal range he has. Looking great in a white flowing modern outfit and later covered in blood he made all of the audience feel for him. I do hope I get to see him in another show as he was exceptional. His rendition of Gethsemane was beautiful.

Leanne Barber as the lone lead lady played Mary Magdalene. What a gorgeous voice she has. Smooth and clear as a bell she shone out. Again great costume choice with the red dress which stood out against the muted colours of the ensemble. Her rendition of ‘I don’t know how to love him’ was really stunning.

Director Jimmy Hooper certainly chose his cast well as there were so many great voices. Stewart Adkins as the evil Caiaphas and his cohort Annas (Simon Possee) gave a sinister evil touch to the show, all dressed in black, and melded their voices well together.

Another smaller role of Peter was played Ben Rolph. Again a lovely clear vocal and good to see him in the role rather than back stage. With Jason Norton as Simon both added to the storyline as the apostles.

The role of Pilate (Tim Clarke) was a masterpiece in clarity of speech as I heard every word he sang. Michael Mundell-Poole played King Herod as a Boxer in the ring, reigning punches on Jesus with his huge gold boxing gloves. What a fun role to play. I must admit I did not recognise him in the wig and glasses. He obviously enjoyed every minute.

The ensemble were filled with energy and vigour during the show but in the first half the sound balance was a problem so I found it hard to hear clearly what they were singing. I’m sure this will be rectified as several other audience members did comment on this.

The rich score was played brilliantly by Musical Director Jessie Tabor and her orchestra. The music complemented the action on stage.

The set was clear to allow the cast to move. A rostra at the rear and sides of the stage and the two ladders allowed for different levels. I loved the graffiti in the centre which was fluorescent paint which lit up at certain times with the word Jesus in the centre.

Lighting was well done and not overplayed. The follow spot was slightly off at times but again I think this will be sorted by tonight’s performance.

Congratulations to Jimmy Hooper and his team for a great nights entertainment.