Jesus Christ Superstar: Studio Tenn Stuns!
Jesus Christ Superstar, known for retelling a powerful message of the gospel through pop rock anthems, is an intriguing end to Studio Tenn’s season. Jesus Christ Superstar has been a topic of controversy in the theater world for decades. Supporters believe it to be dynamic storytelling that shows more than one perspective on the Bible, while critics argue it to be sacrilegious to tell the story of Jesus through Judas’ eyes. After the pope publicly endorsed the show in 1999, viewpoints began to shift. With Andrew Lloyd Weber’s killer vocal lines, intense choreography, and heavy content, Jesus Christ Superstar is a show that requires a stellar cast. This production curated a cast that is beyond stellar, from the eye-catching ensemble to the Tony and Grammy nominated leads. The talent these actors and actresses display mixed with the electricity of the show itself is a treat to experience!
Grammy-nominated Mykal Kilgore as Judas gives one of the most dynamic and memorable performances I have ever had the privilege to experience. From his first notes in “Heaven On Their Minds” the audience was awe stricken. Kilgore’s vocals are simply so fantastic that they make a person giddy. His clear belt, strong upper register, and excellent diction are just a few of the skills that earn praise. But his obvious knowledge of musical cadences that allow him the ability to improv and riff on top of already difficult vocal lines settles it. Not to mention, Judas’ suicide in the second act is incredibly emotional and heartbreaking. Kilgore goes through Judas’ thought process from initial shock to acceptance of his fate with tears streaming down his face. It is just brilliant. Watching an actor make an audience sympathize with the most hated biblical figure and understand his thought process at the same time is jaw dropping. Judas is one of the most difficult roles to portray in musical theater history, and Kilgore does it justice. Brava.
Tony-nominated actor, Adam Pascal, portrays the iconic role of Jesus, and it is no shock that his performance is exceptional. Pascal’s vocal prowess is something of legend, his effortless vocal flips up to rockstar high notes (out of thin air might I add), are ridiculously impressive. His performance of Gethsemane does not disappoint: he takes one of the most difficult songs in tenor musical theater repertoire and makes it look like a breeze. I mean, most of the song is on his knees! His interpretation of Jesus’ resignation, bravery, and resilience in the final days before the Crucifixion, is honed and intentional.
Olivia Valli’s performance of “I Don’t Know How To Love Him” is beautiful and tugs perfectly at the heartstrings. Her portrayal of Mary Magdalene is strong and heartfelt. Valli makes Mary more headstrong than she is typically portrayed, and it’s a great interpretation! Peter (Connor Barr) and Mary’s duet in the second act “Can We Start Again Please” is staged differently than a typical Jesus Christ Superstar production, with the actors shaking hands and hugging at the end. It adds a personal and intimate touch to both characters’ development. I would be remiss to not mention Jennifer Whitcomb-Olivia’s portrayal as King Herod in fabulously tall, gold, stiletto pumps. She delivers a wonderfully comical and impressive performance of “King Herod’s Song.” Also worth mentioning is Parker Jenkins who adds a hilarious flair to his every role and Emma Rose Williamson in the ensemble, who I could not take my eyes off of!
The staging and choreography of this production cannot be dismissed! With a relatively small ensemble, the stage feels full and alive. The production is frequently very minimalistic, with hardly any costuming or set. It was refreshing to see Jesus Christ Superstar with a more modern approach taken by Director Patrick Cassidy. The actors wear grungy outfits with camouflage and bright colors, holding cell phones and taking flash photos throughout the performance. This, and the giant mural of Jesus make the immense following (or “fan base”) of Jesus read very clearly!
The choreography in “What’s The Buzz” and “Jesus Christ Superstar” specifically caught my attention. Both numbers are showstoppers and showcase the ensemble wonderfully! The orchestra sounded so recording-perfect that it was difficult to believe they were live musicians. When attended the media preview on May 6th, there were some issues with awkward breaks between numbers. Despite this, there were several pictures and moments created on stage that were stunning. The last supper sequence has the actors freeze at the end to recreate the famous painting. Additionally, the crucifixion sequence played with levels very interestingly, with Jesus being front and center above the ensemble. It makes for a dynamic scene!
Studio Tenn’s Jesus Christ Superstar is fantastic. It provides everything you can possibly ask for in a musical. Getting to listen to such a wonderful score sung by such stellar voices is a once in a lifetime experience. Do not miss it!
Jesus Christ Superstar will be at The Factory’s Turner Theatre through May 31st. See their website for tickets and more information.
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Currently studying music at Middle Tennessee State University, Vivian Acevedo is a huge theater and arts lover. She believes in the healing power of music and its importance in the world!
