Divine!
by Ant on 12/1/25Rating: 5 out of 5Jesus Christ Superstar: Forgive them, for they know not what they do... Didactic? Undoubtedly. In this instance, I don’t mind that. For Christ’s sake, this is good! A most brilliantly crafted rendering of a modern classic. Were do I start? "30 AD", I suppose... just as the prologue begins once we are comfortable in our seats. As an experience, the Capitol Theatre, Sydney, is both charming and re-welcoming, even to the first-timer. Packed houses noon and night speak for themselves. Thank God this operascura has been raised again, this time to new heights. It’s umpteenth coming has been long awaited and here it is. As fabulous as when first performed, yet better still! As a third-time recidivist, I’m unable to decide between my first encounter and my last as to whom channels Jesus better. Both portrayals were mesmeric. Judas is, thoughtfully, Judas. Mary Magdalene is a comfort vocally, visually and spirituality; balm indeed. The chorus company is remarkable, if not virtually seizing the limelight throughout. How do they do it? Answer: choreographic insanity, amply assisted by props literally dripping with metaphor and voices that resonate and resonate. Beyond vigour, stylism, symbolism and blatant provocation, this troup célèbre combine youthfulness with an uncomfortable irksome message: clever-cunning-sad-human-reality. Pretty and ugly symaltaneously. I remain confounded by these Gnostics. Thank you, I guess? Worry not; everything's alright... Pilot: Pontius as ever. Herod: beguiling when not beheading. Leave now you extravagant tease! The musical ensemble itself is beyond believer. A veritable orchestra, yet only a handful of true musicians. The score's originality and integrity expertly maintained. Hosanna! Lighting, sound, costumes, make-up, all in such subtlety and extremism; I give in... crucify me now. Actually, I’m dying to see it again and again. Blasphemy? No! Unadulterated brilliance? Consult the Bible. Thank you to the creators and everyone involved. With Heaven on my mind, you did indeed “nail it”! Amen.