Jesus Christ Superstar

Scotch College Student Production

Fisher Chapel, Scotch College, Adelaide

July 29-August 1, 2015

I’m plenty old enough to have attended the original professional production of Jesus Christ Superstar in Australia. Other major productions of this iconic rock opera have been staged since, including the arena version. I can say without doubt that with its awesome student performers and innovative production design, Scotch College’s stunning treatment of the musical can stand proudly in the company of its memorable predecessors.

Jesus Christ Superstar was created for the stage by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. Seen through the eyes of Judas Iscariot and loosely based on biblical writings, the story focuses on a troubled Jesus nearing the end of his short life, as he is faced with the human failings of those who surround him, the anguish of the woman who loves him and the circumstances that lead to his betrayal.

Modern and edgy, the Scotch College version of the rock opera references Rome and Jerusalem but is set in a place that has a distinctly ‘cold war’ feel. This is reflected in the military uniforms and the KGB-style actions and appearance of media mogul Caiaphus and his cohorts from media corporation, F.E.A.R.

Designed by Brian Budgen, the towering set is the largest yet used for a Scotch College musical. The set is simple, yet effective, dominated as it is by a large screen on which brainwashing slogans, video of riots and emotive backdrops to scenes are displayed.

Under the guidance of Director Adam Goodburn, Choreographer Linda Williams and Musical Director Antony Hubmayer, the sublimely talented student performers and musicians create a seamless, dramatic, often funny yet ultimately poignant spectacle.

The performers demonstrate emotional insight and skill beyond their years, together with excellent vocal skills.

Ben Francis is becoming well-known in Adelaide as a fine young actor and singer and is brilliant in his role as Jesus. His voice soars, with his performance being particularly riveting during the last supper and leading up to and including the crucifixion.

At least a match for Ben Francis is AFI award-nominated teen Tom Russell, who plays Judas Iscariot. His performance is insightful, mature and nuanced and his singing voice is very fine.

Some roles are double cast to allow for the wealth of talent at Scotch College. Hannah Hamilton shares the role of Mary Magdalene, but on opening night it was Paris Anderson who was given the opportunity to shine as Mary. Her performance was towering, with her rendition of "I Don’t Know How to Love Him" being a sweetly sublime highlight. No doubt Hannah Hamilton is also a wonderful Mary.

The remaining Principals in the cast are excellent. Samuel Burt is terrific as Caiaphus, a difficult role for an adolescent voice. Lachlan Williams produces a strong performance as Pontius Pilate and Kyle Hall and Jordan Tomljenovic are wonderful as Peter and Simon respectively. Emma Trumble is very good as Annas and Tayla Coad has loads of stage presence in a sassily feminised ‘celebrity icon’ take on Herod (talented Onor Nottle is understudying Herod).

The additional cast, too many to name, form a perfect ensemble.

Unseen behind the video screen another excellent ensemble, this one of musicians, accompanies the cast in the iconic numbers that stamp Jesus Christ Superstar as an enduring rock opera. Numbers such as "Everything’s Alright", "Hosanna", "The Last Supper", "Gethsemane" and "Could We Start Again Please" are among the highlights of this production. The musicianship is very good, however the volume of the music occasionally overwhelms the singing voices.

Technically, this modern production shines in every respect, including its inclusion of mobile technology on stage. A startling and fine example of the show’s technical design occurs in the dramatic and gut wrenching lashing of Jesus prior to his crucifixion, when with each blow, computerised ‘blood’ splashes the walls.

The cast, musicians, director, support team and of course, the parents of the wonderfully talented young people involved in Scotch College’s magnificent production of Jesus Christ Superstar should be very, very proud indeed.

Lesley Reed