'Superstar' Comes Alive (Redline Performing Arts)

Jesus Christ Superstar Written and Composed by Andrew Lloyd Weber and Tim Rice Directed by Alonzo Ramont

Review by Erin Hargan

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Since its debut on Broadway in 1971 as a rock musical, few have maintained the cultural impact and broad appeal that Jesus Christ Superstar has. Redline Performing Arts’s production of this classic maintains that momentum while offering a fresh, heartfelt interpretation that highlights the remarkable talent of its local performers and reminds audiences why this groundbreaking musical continues to resonate more than five decades later.

Set during the final days of Jesus’ life, Jesus Christ Superstar tells the story through the eyes of Judas Iscariot as he struggles with Jesus’s growing influence and the events that will ultimately lead to his betrayal. The rock musical explores the relationships between Jesus, Judas, and Mary Magdalene while following the events leading to Jesus’s crucifixion.The production is staged in the arena-style Bingham Theatre at Actors Theatre, where the audience surrounds the stage on all sides. This setup creates a more intimate connection between the performers and the audience, drawing viewers into the action rather than keeping them at a distance. The staging also makes creative use of the entire space, with actors entering from different levels and areas of the theatre and sometimes moving among the audience. This makes the performance feel more immersive and engaging.

Cody Martin delivered a strong and heartfelt performance as Jesus. He brought both power and vulnerability to the role, capturing Jesus’s compassion as well as the emotional weight of the events surrounding him. Martin’s performance gave the character a strong presence while also allowing the audience to see his more human and vulnerable side. Tony Smith gave a powerful performance as Judas, capturing the character’s inner conflict and growing frustration with Jesus and his followers. His strong vocals and emotional performance helped show the struggle behind Judas’s actions, making him a compelling presence throughout the production. Kimberly Salter brought warmth and emotion to the role of Mary Magdalene. Her performance captured the character’s compassion and deep connection to Jesus, while her vocals added to the emotional impact of the role. Other memorable performances included Philip Clemons as Pontius Pilate, whose strong vocals brought power to the role, and Kristy Calman, whose portrayal of the mocking Herod, added another memorable moment to the production.

The rest of the cast also contributed to the strength of the production, with strong ensemble vocals that brought the musical's well-known score to life. The large ensemble filled the theatre with energy, particularly during the show's group numbers. The choreography added to that energy, making creative use of the arena-style space and keeping the action moving throughout the production. Live musicians accompanied the cast throughout the performance, adding energy and intensity to the familiar score.

Redline Performing Arts’s Jesus Christ Superstar is a powerful and engaging production that brings together strong performances, memorable vocals, and energetic choreography. This talented cast brings fresh life to a classic musical, reminding audiences why Jesus Christ Superstar continues to resonate more than 50 years after its debut.

Jesus Christ Superstar Redline Performing Arts

August 21-24, August 28-30 Bingham Theatre at Actors Theatre of Louisville 316 W. Main St., Louisville KY 40202 https://www.redlineperformingarts.com/