Latest news with #JesusChristSuperstar
Los Angeles Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
A Black female Jesus and a gay Judas will shake up the Hollywood Bowl
Adam Lambert sits on a rickety wooden chair just outside the main chapel at the Hollywood United Methodist Church on a break from rehearsing the musical 'Jesus Christ Superstar.' Dressed in beige shorts and a vest with matching mid-calf boots, Lambert wears his trademark glitter eye makeup with thick black liner. He's calm and collected, content to spend his lunch break chatting, even though the rehearsal schedule is a breakneck nine days total. He chalks up his easygoing demeanor to the high-wattage professionalism of the cast, and his familiarity with the music. Lambert first heard the soundtrack on one of his dad's vinyl records when he was about 10 years old. 'I've always wanted to do that musical. I've always wanted to play Judas,' he says with a smile. 'And when they told me Cynthia [Erivo] was interested, I was like, 'Wow, this is gonna be crazy.'' Lambert, a fan-favorite 'American Idol' runner-up who began performing with Queen in 2011, plays Judas to Erivo's Jesus in the Hollywood Bowl production directed by Tony-winning choreographer Sergio Trujillo. Josh Gad, who portrays King Herod, calls the cast 'the musical theater version of the Avengers.' He's referring to Erivo and Lambert, in addition to Phillipa Soo as Mary Magdalene, Milo Manheim as Peter, Raúl Esparza as Pontius Pilate, Tyrone Huntley as Simon and Brian Justin Crum as Annas. The sold-out show runs from Friday to Sunday. Judging from the ongoing commentary and controversy over the casting on social media, a queer, Black, female actor playing Jesus and a gay actor portraying Judas feel like a revelation to fans grappling with mounting concerns about civil rights in America. Over the last six months, the Trump administration has curtailed diversity, equity and inclusion programs and attempted to roll back key legal protections for certain members of the LGBTQ+ community. 'The challenge for the audience of seeing a female Black Jesus is so exciting. And we all feel the excitement,' says Lambert, adding that the show doesn't change lyrics or pronouns. 'Maybe it doesn't have to do with male or female. I don't really know if it matters what gender Jesus was, because it was about the teachings and the love and the connection to faith. So shouldn't it transcend gender?' Power — who has it and who doesn't — has emerged as a defining narrative in 2025. That was also the case 2,000 years ago when Pontius Pilate ordered the crucifixion of Jesus, who posed a serious threat to the religious and political primacy of the Pharisees, the Herodians and the Romans. The 1971 musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice imagines the final days of Jesus' life, including his agony, before he ultimately accepts his fate. Gad is keenly aware of the notion of power as historic through-line as he approaches his titular number, 'Herod's Song,' in which the King of Judea coyly mocks Jesus before taking a frightening turn into true menace. 'This is a man who's so insecure he can't afford to let Jesus out of his chains in order to actually face him without the help of soldiers around him,' Gad says. 'My hope is that I'm getting to bring one of the greatest hypocrites to life in a way that will both make people laugh and also make them recognize that archetype.' The musical was first released as a concept album in 1970 and played at the Hollywood Bowl in 1971, before debuting on Broadway later that year. During its run, protests outside the stage door were commonplace, and although the musical has reached the pinnacle of success over the years, it has remained controversial. Big summer musicals have been a staple of the Hollywood Bowl since 2000, but the shows went dark due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. With the exception of 'Kinky Boots' in 2022, 'Jesus Christ Superstar' is the first of what Bowl leaders hope will be an annual resumption of the beloved programming. 'We wanted to make sure that when we came back, it was the most spectacular thing we could do,' says Meghan Umber, president of the Hollywood Bowl and chief programming officer at the Los Angeles Philharmonic. 'Jesus Christ Superstar,' was always at the top of the Bowl's musical wishlist but wasn't available until now, adds Brian Grohl, associate director of programming for the L.A. Phil. 'The number of titles that can sustain three nights at the Hollywood Bowl is a narrowed-down list already,' Grohl said, so securing the title resulted in a lot of jumping and shouting around the office. And when it came to who would play Jesus, Umber and Grohl both say Erivo topped the list. Her 'yes' made all the others follow. Gad calls Erivo — who was not present at a recent rehearsal because of a previous engagement — a 'generational talent.' And he's far from alone. Talk to anyone on the cast or crew and they will immediately hold forth on her extraordinary gifts. 'I see the hand of God in her,' Trujillo says reverently. 'Even now, me being in the room with her, I hear it and I see it, and it is transcendent.' Trujillo decided to go back to the musical's roots as a concept album and is staging the show as a bare-bones rock concert. Instead of elaborate scenic design, there are black road boxes, microphones and cords. Even the costumes are contemporary with nods to their lineage. A rhythm band will play onstage and a 37-piece orchestra will perform behind a giant LED screen that will create the illusion that the musicians are hovering in the sky above the action. Keeping the show in the present and infusing it with the raw energy of youth culture was crucial to Trujillo's vision, he says, adding that in the spirit of rock 'n' roll, the musical 'reflects the turbulent political times that we're living in.' 'As I set up each one of the characters, they're at a microphone singing and then they take the microphone and they step into the scene. I always want to remind the audience that we are in a concert, but we're also telling the story,' says Trujillo. 'Every single person understands the opportunity that we all have to take this monumental story, this monumental score, and to do it justice. So everyone is coming at it with such goodwill and so much joy.' At a Saturday rehearsal in the church gym, Trujillo's words ring true. The ensemble cast of more than 20 talented dancers and singers, in sweats and hoodies, run through 'What's the Buzz.' Gad watches and cheers from a table on the sidelines next to conductor and musical director Stephen Oremus, who smiles and nods his head with the beat. 'If you need me to stand in for Jesus, I'll do it,' Gad jokes. Lambert mesmerizes the assembled crew and onlookers with a potent rendition of 'Heaven on Their Minds' and Soo brings tears with a heartfelt performance of 'I Don't Know How to Love Him.' 'The more time I spend with this musical, the more brilliant I understand it to be,' says Manheim during a brief break. The 24-year-old, who's gained a tween following after playing Zed in Disney Channel's 'Zombies' franchise, is part of the youth cohort Trujillo wanted to cast. He wasn't as familiar with the score as the older cast members — which is part of the point. 'It's cross-generational,' says Trujillo of the show. 'This is the gift that you give to your children and then it just gets passed on.'
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘American Idol' Alum Teams Up With Broadway Legend for Heavenly Studio Recording
'American Idol' Alum Teams Up With Broadway Legend for Heavenly Studio Recording originally appeared on Parade. Adam Lambert is stepping into Judas Iscariot's shoes. On Friday, August 1, Lambert will release a brand-new version of Jesus Christ Superstar's 'Heaven on Their Minds,' just ahead of his highly anticipated run as Judas in a three-night production of the rock opera at the Hollywood Bowl, running August 1–3. It also marks a rare collaboration with the show's original composer Andrew Lloyd Webber. 'I was thrilled when Andrew asked me if I wanted to record a studio version of 'Heaven On Their Minds',' Lambert told Variety. 'This is a great way to commemorate my upcoming appearance as Judas and to give fans all around the world a little taste of what will happen onstage at the Hollywood Bowl.'Webber, who receives co-billing as executive producer and arranger, personally invited Lambert to tackle the number that was originally sung by Murray Head in the 1970 concept album and since covered by numerous artists. The new track was produced by Swedish writer-producer Martin Terefe and recorded across four cities, London, New York, Los Angeles, and Nashville, where the sweeping strings were laid down. The release also comes with a 40-second teaser video showing Lambert in the studio, offering fans a first listen to the reimagined track. 'Heaven on Their Minds' is a fan-favorite in the Jesus Christ Superstar catalog, known for its fiery guitar intro and Judas's tortured introspection about the fate of Jesus and the movement they've built. The Hollywood Bowl production promises even more musical firepower: Cynthia Erivo stars in the title role, with Phillipa Soo as Mary Magdalene and Josh Gad as King Herod. The show is directed and choreographed by Sergio Trujillo, with music direction from Stephen Oremus. Lambert recently wowed Broadway audiences as the Emcee in Cabaret. As for Webber, it's been a banner year with revivals of Sunset Boulevard and Evita making waves on both sides of the Atlantic. For Superstar fans, the next one may be a very Good Friday indeed. 'American Idol' Alum Teams Up With Broadway Legend for Heavenly Studio Recording first appeared on Parade on Jul 25, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 25, 2025, where it first appeared. Solve the daily Crossword
Miami Herald
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Miami Herald
Adam Lambert sells his dangerously stylish Beverly Hills home for $6.2M. See it
Singer and actor Adam Lambert has waved goodbye to his super chic Beverly Hills, California, estate for $6.2 million and is passing it on to new owners who too will fawn over its epic views. 'Hollywood Hills perfection,' the description on Zillow said of the four-bedroom, six-bathroom, 5,028-square-foot property. 'This gated Sunset Strip stunner is sited on an expansive lot complete with a drive on motor court and a glorious large yard with swimming pool, spa, outdoor kitchen and firepit,' the listing says. Built in 1952, the home has clearly been updated to reflect modern decor and style, which includes four bedroom suites, a workout room and an open floor plan that includes moving glass walls in the living room, the listing says. Other features, per the listing, include: Chef's kitchen'Seductive' primary suiteSwimming poolDramatic views The listing was held by Greg Holcomb of Carolwood Estates. The buyers were represented by Dennis DeWalt and Brandon Meneses of The Beverly Hills Estates. Lambert is best known for being a contestant on 'American Idol' and most recently taking on Broadway in 'Cabaret.' Next, he's starring opposite 'Wicked' star Cynthia Erivo in 'Jesus Christ Superstar,' Variety reported.
Rhyl Journal
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Rhyl Journal
Prestatyn Carnival enjoys successful return to town for 2025
The carnival was be based on Bastion Road Field today (July 19), while the festivities also involved a parade, which started from the top of High Street at 12pm. Despite the overcast weather, which later brightened up, the parade was still enjoyed by many watching on High Street, while participants included Bodnant Community School, Jesus Christ Superstar re-enactors, and Rhyl & District Gateway Club. First held in 1921, the carnival this year featured more than 70 stalls, a Welsh craft tent, funfair rides, retro carnival games, paintball, birds of prey, street food, a dog show, a baby show, and the coronation of Prestatyn's royal family. This year's carnival competitions included a dog show, baby of the year, best entry from a charity/voluntary group or school, best entry by a business, best visiting queen's vehicle, and best fancy dress entry. The carnival remains open until approximately 8pm this evening. It is organised by Prestatyn Carnival Association, whose chair, Joy Williams, had held the position for the last 27 years. Above, you can enjoy a selection of photos from this year's carnival.
The Guardian
06-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
Jesus Christ Superstar review – innovative, emotional revival is divinely inspired
A quirk of the diary has seen revivals of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd-Webber's two 1970s super-musicals – Evita and Jesus Christ Superstar – open in England within three days. Seen together, they are remarkably similar in structure. An anguished narrator – Judas in 33 AD; Che in the mid-20th century – provokes and rebukes a protagonist to whom sanctity is attributed – Jesus; Eva – and who threatens the political classes with a revolution. Paul Hart's staging for his innovative riverside venue in Berkshire benefits – as does Jamie Lloyd's London Palladium Evita – from the current rise of political and religious populism, giving shows either side of 50 years old a strikingly topical context. Hart uses seventeen actor-musicians, strumming or blowing between lines, with only the title character not playing an instrument, making Jesus look like a vocalist with a massive backing band. But the power of the production is how the cast devastatingly excavate the emotion in the lyrics. Clearly knowing from the outset that he must die – and that his human incarnation makes him sometimes dread and fear this – Michael Kholwadia's Jesus, unlike the serene hippy-magician in some productions, embodies the 'haunting, hunted' look described by Christian Edwards' Pilate, whose 'Pilate's Dream' is also sung in a tone closer to nightmare. This emphasis on the horror that Christ's mission and passion would have caused to those around him extends to Parisa Shahmir's tinglingly sung Mary Magdalene. By unusually stressing the line 'He scares me so' in I Don't Know How To Love Him, she makes exceptional sense of the later reboot plea, Could We Start Again, Please? Conversely, the Judas of Max Alexander-Taylor, displaying an extraordinary harmonic range, is more complex than the simple Biblical baddie. He truly believes that he is doing the right and nation-saving thing, as zealots everywhere will. With stage managers watching the sky as beadily as cricket umpires, the second half starts, if weather allows, outside in the Watermill grounds. The advantage is that the Gethsemane sequence takes place in an actual garden, but the inevitable delay in getting the audience back to their seats for the trial and crucifixion means that a show of otherwise exemplary pace briefly stalls. Lloyd-Webber still attracts much snideness but recent revivals of his Sunset Boulevard (with Don Black and Christopher Hampton) and now this twice-Rice mini-festival with Evita and Jesus Christ Superstar, leave me happy to say that he is a great musical drama composer, tackling unlikely dark material in scores that perfectly serve both the tragic and comic notes of his librettists. At the Watermill theatre, Newbury, until 21 September
