And it’s back! Jesus Christ Superstar, the 50+ year-old musical that put Andrew Lloyd Webber (and to some extent, Tim Rice) on the path to fame and superstardom, played last weekend at Baldwin Wallace’s Kleist Center. Produced by the Baldwin Wallace Conservatory of the Performing Arts, the show is also scheduled to repeat November 21-24.
It was perhaps radical, in the 1970s, to combine religion and rock, but today it’s ho-hum, so what to do to make it new? Director Laura Welsh decided to forgo traditional gender identities, and the result is — interesting.
It’s double cast so this review is based on the “Wine” cast rather than the “Water” cast.
What stood out? The set, designed by Dylan Fujimura, suggested a classic Roman structure that offered room for excellent dance routines choreographed by Gregory Daniels. The large cast moved with grace and precision, showcasing admirable energy and enthusiasm. Others who helped stage the show were Maya Michele Fein (lighting) and Tesia Benson (costumes).
Benson’s choice to clothe Gabi Ilg’s fragile Jesus in thin white flowing garments suggested an ethereal Christ (but how would Jesus have kept his clothes so spotless while on the road all the time — never mind).
Music Director Gideon Temple (BW ’25) conducted a small ensemble placed stage right and supported all the familiar songs, such as “Superstar,” “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” and “Gethsemane.” The orchestra, highlighted by melodic instrumental solos, flourished onstage (rather than stuffed into the pit, as sometimes happens).
The lively (and clearly talented) cast, free of gender-specific identities, flourished as actors — and so it was amusing to see how they handled it. From their standpoint it was a novelty and so a plus. From that of the audience? Maybe less so — if grumbling heard around me counts as evidence. But once one accepts a secular retelling via rock and roll, I’d argue, “Why not?” It’s not church; it’s theater.
Still, you’ve been warned.
Bottom Line: A multi-talented cast presents an enthusiastic revival of a classic musical. JCSC rocks again!