Sam Ryder brings his A-game to the London Palladium as Jesus in this electric new production of Jesus Christ Superstar, a rock opera that's been amplified to epic proportions. Director Tim Sheader, designer Tom Scutt, and choreographer Drew McOnie are behind the creative helm, aiming for a show-stopping experience that's got critics on their toes.
Ryder's vocal range is put through its paces as he takes on the iconic role of Jesus, delivering a tour-de-force performance in 'Gethsemane' that left audiences gasping. He's ably supported by Tyrone Huntley, reprising his Olivier-nominated turn as Judas, whose vocals are as powerful as they are emotionally charged.
However, Ryder's Jesus is getting mixed reviews – some say he comes across as a bit bland and lacks the revolutionary spark that makes the character so compelling. It's hard to get a handle on what drives him or where the conflict with Judas comes from.
The show's 1970s vibe is in full swing, with psychedelic colours, glittering sets, and even some 'hippy-dom' thrown into the mix. The role of Herod features a rotating cast of A-listers, including Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Boy George, Layton Williams, and Julian Clary – it's like a mini Drag Race! But critics are divided on whether this celebrity casting is all about crowd-pleasing or genuine creative input.
The musical's visuals are certainly stunning, but the sheer volume often makes it hard to make out what's being sung. It's not just the sound – some scenes feel like they're missing context. Like Jesus's showdown at the temple, which leaves the audience guessing. Mary Magdalene gets a 'flower child' makeover, with her songs focusing on romance rather than anything more complex or subversive.
While Ryder shines and the visuals are eye-popping, some critics feel this Jesus Christ Superstar revival prioritises sound and spectacle over substance. The relentless energy is impressive, but it's left some of the characters feeling underdeveloped – it's like they're stuck in the spotlight but can't get their story across.
The show's a must-see for theatre enthusiasts, but be warned: tickets are selling fast! And don't even think about streaming this one – it's old-school West End all the way. Catch it if you can!