JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR
Charles Cryer Studio Theatre, May 13-17, 2.30pm, 7.30pm, £16, 020 8770 6990, www.suttontheatres.co.uk
PUTTING on Andrew Lloyd Webber's famous rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar is always a challenge. To put it on in a studio theatre with a full cast and rock band accompaniment is a bigger task still – but Banstead and Nork Amateur Operatic Society (Banaos) overcome it with gusto.
Their latest production is wonderfully stripped back from the bells and whistles which often accompany the production; featuring a simple two-tier set and making good use of the audience's proximity to draw them into the show.
The loud, energetic, live band, hidden behind the stage, drives the cast on through fantastically lively renditions of some of Lord Lloyd Webber's best-known tunes.
In the – arguably central – role of Judas, Jeff Chinappen sings wonderfully and shines as an ever-present brooding and conflicted character. Katy Jackson's Mary Magdalene is perfectly pitched – in every sense - throughout, torn between devoted follower and lover. Toby Jones is outstanding as Jesus, a role he assumed the role late in the rehearsal period. From the moment he first appears through the audience – yes, the staging makes full use of the studio-style theatre – his performance is stellar.
It is impossible to name-check every excellent performance but it is a credit to Banaos and the actors they have recruited that there are no weak links across a wide spectrum of soloists.
A couple of anachronistic moments of costuming were a mild distraction but they do nothing to take away from what is a spectacular show from start to finish.
Tickets are selling fast so if you want to grab one you need to be quick.
