Can a musical with zero dialogue win over a skeptic? Mike Woody reviews Jesus Christ, Superstar, now at La Comedia Dinner Theatre.
Review: Jesus Christ, Superstar at La Comedia
With the hope that La Comedia forgives me, I have a confession to make. I prefer musicals with some dialogue between the songs. However, due to the amazing vocals and moving performances by the cast of Jesus Christ Superstar, I thoroughly enjoyed it. With such a powerful soundtrack, who needs a monologue? In this case, it would likely be a parable anyway.
Maybe it’s because I’ve read ‘the good book’ and have even participated in some studies on it that I was able to follow the story. Normally, in a musical without dialogue, I’m as lost as a teenager (or many adults) without their phone. I still have no idea what CATS is about. Spoiler alert, I knew Jesus was going to get crucified at the end. Fear not, He rises from the dead.
Playing the role of Jesus must be a daunting task. There’s no bigger sandals to fill than the Almighty, but Josh Hamilton does so admirably. His voice is divine, particularly in ‘Gethsemane (I Only Want to Say)’, which is powerfully moving. When on stage, Hamilton possesses the power to perform miracles.
It’s hard to compete against Jesus in anything, including wine making, but Jonah Mendoza as Judas is up to the challenge with vocals. Though not as heavy as a cross, Judas carries a lot of weight throughout the show, and Mendoza handles it with ease.
For a show that’s all music from beginning to end, the cast better be up to the task. There’s no shortage of talent contained within Jesus Christ, Superstar. The high caliber of talent continues with Isabel Gray’s angelic voice as Mary Magdalene. Gray brings warmth to the role and tugs at the heartstrings with the compassion she shows toward Christ.
Despite their intentions being most devilish, there are even some endearing qualities in the show's villains. Equipped with fashionable headgear is the dangerous duo of Caiaphas, for which the always flexible Colin Cranstoun displays his low voice, and the ever-captivating Jonathan Pendergrass as Annas, who definitely will gain some new fans. Plus, Heath Rawls is chilling as Pontius Pilate.
The depiction of the 39 lashes is a standout moment, showcasing a unique and artistic vision from director Chris Beiser. It's a stroke of genius that utilizes the stage as a canvas, creating a visceral impact that resonates long after the curtain falls.
Additional stand-out scenes/songs to me were ‘The Temple’, when a group of lepers appears seeking to be healed by Jesus. The lepers are impressively frightening. ‘King Herod’s Song’, fittingly done by King Herod (Chad Ferriell), is a more standard musical number serving as comedic relief, which Ferriell expertly masters. I’d watch a musical based on King Herod starring Ferriell, whether it had any dialogue or not.
The entire cast/ensemble all deserve praise for their amazing performances. Their vocals, dancing, and expressions all help to create a superb show. If there were an 11th Commandment, it would be, ‘Thou shalt not miss Jesus Christ, Superstar at La Comedia Dinner Theatre.
More info: Jesus Christ, Superstar at La Comedia continues through May 10.
