Neeley's Superstar Still Steals the Show

Jesus Christ Superstar opened on Broadway in 1971 with Jeff Fenholt playing Jesus. In 1972 Ted Neeley was cast in the lead role for the touring production, picking up a following as loyal and sometimes controversial as Christ himself. In 1973, Neeley was cast in the film version which soon became one of the most popular movie musicals in history. 

Thirty six years later, the "Farewell Tour" starring Ted Neeley proves a great show never dies - or in this case, it will resurrect itself and come back stronger. Neeley defies time. At 63 years old, twice as old as Christ himself, Ted seems ageless and if anything, he has deepened his grasp of this character from his Messiah-like appearance to the open conversations he has with heaven. While his mannerism seems a bit meeker and his speaking voice a bit milder, Neeley still delivers a stellar performance and hits all the money notes effortlessly. The crucifixion scene is intensely riveting as Neeley labors to breathe and speak for what seems to be forever.

Filling the big shoes of the late Carl Anderson is Corey Glover playing the difficult role of Judas Iscariot. The Living Colour front man wastes no time engaging the audience in the role and right into the action.  Glover steals the scenes with powerful, stylized vocal work but fails to muster up much pity for his confused character.

The supporting cast is sufficient while not extraordinary. Tiffini Dodson plays a voluptuous Mary Magdalene with a lovely legit voice that carries the part but lacks passion for the character.  Craig Sculli plays Pontius Pilate with a stiff intensity that also stifles any hint of conflict or confusion for his weighty decision.

Herod is played over-the-top, as expected, by Aaron Fuksa. The chubby, bathrobed Fuksa nails a "Saturday Night Live" presentation of "Herod's Song" backed by his trio of tango singers.

The 12 apostles and remaining company are all quite strong with well delivered songs and add to the support of a show which is tight and flows nicely.  Chris Gleim does an admirably job as Peter.

The sets are simple, dark, multileveled with a bridge and a few platforms which allows the performers to capture each scene and song. The classic direction of Dallet Norris is a refreshing version for this tour which allows the piece the dignity it deserves.

Music: Andrew Lloyd Webber, Lyrics: Tim Rice, Costumes: Fabio Toblini, Sound Design: Duncan Robert Edwards, Lighting Design: Rick Belzer, Choreographer: Arlene Phillips, Director: Dallet Norris

"The Farewell tour of Jesus Christ Superstar" played at the Commerce Bank Arts Center, Sewell, NJ on May 2, 2007. www.cbartscentre.org

Interview with Ted Neeley. Click here:

broadwayworld.com/viewcolumn.cfm?colid=18140

For more information about the tour visit: www.jcsthetour.com

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