Jesus on Broadway

There is a Superstar on Broadway! Last Wednesday, I ventured to the Neil Simon Theatre on West 52nd Street to see the Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice musical. I have been apart of the play in high school and saw the movie as well. However, I have never seen the production on the Broadway stage. I am so thankful I did, the play was magical!

Jesus  (Paul Nolan)

The performances by all three lead characters, Jesus Christ (Paul Nolan), Judas Iscariot (Josh Young), and Mary Magdalene (Chilina Kennedy) I enjoyed immensely. The set (Robert Brill) and costumes (Paul Tazewell) evoked a futuristic feeling while staying in the past. The music and lyrics by Webber and Rice were on point, both dramatic and uplifting, capturing the soul of the show through the rock opera lens. The singing and stage presence of the ensemble and leads were terrific.

The most disappointing part of JCS is that it was not nominated for more Tony Awards. JCS is up for two, best revival of a musical and best performance by a featured actor in a musical in Josh Young (Judas). After reading the Tony Nominations listing I was shocked that Des McAnuff, the director, did not receive any recognition. His staging in this production was punctual, powerful, and emotionally driven. Robert Brill the Set Designer was another shocker as well. Most of all, Paul Nolan. If anyone was born to play the role of Jesus in this show it is most definitely him. He captured the emotions, body language, movement so well, you would think he is Jesus himself!!