Jesus Christ Superstar at the Liverpool Empire Review
Jesus Christ Superstar
Empire Theatre, Liverpool
23-28 March 2015
Reviewed by Susan Trish
The Liverpool Empire theatre provided a fantastic setting for this breathtakingly brilliant musical. The original and traditional features of this iconic theatre are still as beautiful as ever. In a prime city centre location, the theatre is easy to get to and close to all public transport links.
Upon arrival we were directed to the box office by very helpful and friendly stewards. Despite the venue being busy everything seemed to run smoothly and with precision.
Tickets collected, we purchased some refreshments, we found drink prices were a little on the expensive side but this is generally to be expected at such venues. We were served quickly and staff were friendly and polite.
We were informed as we collected the tickets that Rachael Adedeji, playing the role of Mary Magdelene, would not be in tonight’s performance and her understudy, Jodie Steele, would be taking the part instead.
We were a bit disappointed as we had heard such great things but still looked forward to the show.
We found our seats, which were perfectly positioned for a fantastic view of the stage. The lights went down and the show began right on time. There was a fantastic atmosphere in the theatre as the opening music hushed the audience to excited silence.
The show was electric and engaging from start to finish. It delivered the story beautifully and respectfully, with a modern twist or two throughout.
Glenn Carter delivered a breath-taking performance from start to finish. The tension and emotion in the atmosphere truly reflected the amazingly passionate performance he gave. A key moment for me was how deeply emotive he left the audience feeling during the crucifixion scene and the build up to it – it really was poignant and on looking around me I witnessed may tears being shed by the audience. Powerful stuff. His on stage relationship with all the cast was a pleasure to watch, especially with Judas and Mary Magdalene.
Judas, played by the brilliant Tim Rogers gave a smashing performance. He had excellent stage presence and vocals were superb. Throughout the show Rogers maintained an intense and powerful presence – a first rate Judas in every way. Some scenes, especially when he was asking for forgiveness and tormenting himself over his traitorous actions, were so powerful they left you feeling sad and shocked – a testament to his commitment and dedication to the role.
Jodie Steele was an absolute pleasure to watch and listen to. Every song perfectly executed and delivered with a sea of emotion. Her stage presence was outstanding and she absolutely played the role perfectly.
It was an absolute pleasure and privilege to watch Rhydian, playing Pontius Pilate, come on stage and give a top class vocal performance. His performance was gripping and as always sounded magical. I just wish we could have seen and heard more of him.
With brilliant backdrops, clever lighting and fantastic costumes, the production crew made great use of the stage with scene changes gliding in and out like clockwork. One minor criticism – and one that didn’t affect the performance whatsoever was the colour of Glenn Carters make up. When he first came on stage it looked like he was wearing a mask!
All of the other cast and dancers deserve a massive round of applause and definitely did not go unnoticed! From the campest King Herod in town to a rather scary Caiaphas and his crew – the show has me gripped from start to finish.
Loved it – would absolutely recommend!
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £12.90 to £48.90 (plus £2.85 transaction fee).
Jesus Christ Superstar is at the Empire Theatre in Liverpool until 28 March 2015. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0844 8713017.
Liverpool Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 1JE | 0844 8713017
