Jesus Christ Superstar

What’s the buzz? Tell me what’s happening….

GMS! That’s what’s happening!!! Their production of Jesus Christ Superstar delivered an opening night performance to die for!

As soon as you enter the theatre to take your seats the stage is already buzzing with a taste of things to come. Scott Russell, Director, is to be congratulated on his vision to present a celebrated ‘70s classic with his innovative interpretation that captivates the audience by updating the approach and launching into the 21st century. The mix of both live and pre-recorded footage projected throughout the show is a stroke of genius.

Video Director, Dean Russell, has put his stamp front and centre on this production bringing a new dimension to the retelling of Jesus’ last days. This show has light, cameras and action at its heart, elevating it to a visual feast for the audience. A shout out must be made to Gabrielle Brooks who ably realised Russell’s vision (pardon the pun) to new heights with her complicated yet very well executed camera work.

The highly competent ensemble both supports and creates the action at every turn executing largely seamless transitions whilst focusing the audience’s attention on the journey of the leads. Their voices in full chorus fill the space with some beautiful vocal blends and their energy on stage is both relentless and commendable. The minor leads of Peter and Simon are performed by Nicholas Langthorn and Dane Hockey who add considerably to the depth of talent in the cast. Hockey is an exceptional performer, dazzling the audience with his impressive vocal skills and his sincere character portrayal. Langthorn plays the role of Peter convincingly throughout and really brings the character to life in the ‘denial moment”, cleverly enhanced by the close-up camera work. The subtle nuances of Peter’s inner conflict are evident in his character as he embodies this already powerful turning point in the story.

Caiaphas and Annas, played by Eamonn Moses and Chloe McWilliams are wonderful as the villains of the piece The larger than life physicality and inherent evilness Moses’ portrayal, contrasted with the powerful and manipulative depiction by McWilliams worked well in juxtaposition to the Christian philosophy and their ultimate part in Jesus’ demise. Alexander Rowe, as Pilate portrayed his character’s personal conflict and inner turmoil with great skill and conviction, establishing himself as much more than a singer. His moments were mesmerising, giving a sincere energy to the role which contrasted effectively with the robust crowd mentally exhibited by the ensemble.

One standout scene, which was cleverly incorporated into this fresh interpretation of the material, was the appearance of Herod. This scene, which injected some light relief and humour into the serious subject matter of the show, was brilliantly performed by Brayden MacFarlane-Walker who was outstanding in the role. His fabulous comic timing and impeccable character embodiment was a delight to behold. He is an obvious triple threat filling the auditorium with his unwavering energy and vocal ability.

Alexandra Swan playing Mary brings a subtle realism and authentic sincerity to the role with style and grace. She seems to quietly glide across the stage with a regal calmness that endears the audience to her character’s plight. Her strong vocal ability and quiet confidence brought yet another dimension to this already multidimensional production. Her zephyr-like approach contrasted beautifully with the feisty strength of Brandon Alexander’s Judas. Brandon is a very familiar face on the Central Coast as he has trodden the boards in multiple productions, however his portrayal of Judas perhaps tops them all. He belts out his numbers with such control and skill, clearly establishing himself as one of the most versatile musical theatre performers on the coast. His energy is relentless and his internal belief palpable.

Last but by no means least, was the one and only Jesus, played by Mitchell Pearson. Pearson has appeared in many musical productions over the years but always as the ‘bridesmaid’, never the ‘bride’. After this performance that will no doubt change. He was exemplary in the role, wowing the audience with his amazing vocal control and pure tones. His voice and presence not only filled every inch of the theatre, but also the audiences’ hearts. His character sincerity never wavered, and his focus and internal belief was exceptional. Pearson is one to look out for in the future.

This show has all the usual hallmarks we have come to expect from GMS however the production aspects were largely off the charts. The band, in full view of the audience, tackled the difficult score with style and finesse which is a credit to the Music Director Kani Lukuta. As Superstar is a rock opera, with no dialogue, the musicians are “on” the entire time and yet they didn’t seem to skip a beat working tirelessly with the cast.

Matt Lutz has to be noted as an innovator and creative king in the role of Lighting Designer. The phenomenal use of a multitude of lighting techniques and inventive ideas literally brought the stage to life, including many metaphoric moments, light bulb moments if you will, adding symbolic meaning to the staging. Coordinating all of this, including cameras, projections, lighting and the cast and crew appears to be an impossible task, so hats off to the Stage Manager Jo-Anne Whitelaw who made Russell’s vision a reality on the stage.

This production is a credit to all of the cast and crew who have brought it to life and is a beautifully crafted marriage between technology, technicolour and talent.

If you have seen Jesus Christ Superstar in the past, it’s time you witnessed it in the present.  GMS has created a fresh, new, innovative and thoroughly captivating version of this timeless classic.

A must see……Amen to that!

By RizzieReviews

https://gosfordmusicalsociety.com/2025-jesus-christ-superstar