Jesus Christ Superstar

Jesus Christ Superstar is a rock musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber (1948-)[1] and Tim Rice (1944-)[2]..

The original text

Loosely based on Biblical accounts of the Passion, it is a somewhat modernised and rather contentious psychological interpretation for the actions of the characters, to a large extent focused on the dissatisfaction of Judas with the direction Jesus was leading them.

Initially released it as a concept album in 1970, since the composers were unable to get backing for a stage production. The album's success then led to the show's debut on Broadway in 1971, with the premiere taking place at the Mark Hellinger Theatre on 12 October 1971, and its international acclaim.

Translations and adaptations

Performance history in South Africa

After it had opened on Broadway in 1971, the musical was originally considered blasphemous by many and was initially banned in South Africa, only being performed there in 1991.

1991: Presented by NAPAC at the Durban Playhouse. This production won a National Vita Award as Musical Theatre Production of the Year in 1992.

1993: Presented by CAPAB Musicals, first performed on the Nico stage on 25 October, directed by David Matheson with musical direction by Charl-Johan Lingenfelder, choreography by Alfred Hinkel, design by Keith Anderson, lighting by Malcolm Hurrell. The cast Glenn Swart, Steve Walsh, Tina Schouw, Chris Brand, Anton Stoltz, John van der Ross, David Nissen, Marius van Lonkhuyzen, Ricky Rudolph, Paul Griffith, Heather Mac and the Company.