Iconic rock opera, Jesus Christ Superstar is being brought dazzling to life at Oxford Playhouse thanks to Oxford Operatic Society (OXOPS), transporting us to the climactic final days of Jesus of Nazareth, reimagined through electrifying music and captivating performances.
Renowned for its dramatic intensity and timeless score, including hits like I Don’t Know How to Love Him and Superstar, this production promises to be a compelling exploration of love, betrayal, and sacrifice.
‘we’ve worked on the relationship between Jesus and Judas, rather than just portraying Jesus as angsty and Judas as angry’
So how are OXOPS going to stage such an epic production? With a vibrant cast of 40 headed up by Andy Blagrove as Judas and Guy Grimsley as Jesus.
Large boots to fill then? “It’s a beast to sing because it’s high rock tenor singing and you’ve got to portray the story and the character while singing the top notes,” Andy laughs, “and that’s a big challenge.
“But we’ve been rehearsing for months, with vocal coaching to build up our stamina, and there’s nothing like hitting that first big note and the feeling of euphoria that follows.
“Its an incredible rush and as the opening number is ‘Heaven On The Minds’ which is my big song – the Judas riff – and that’s so uplifting, knowing that you are telling the story to everyone there.
‘there’s nothing like hitting that first big note and the feeling of euphoria that follows’
“So yes, it’s a huge part. And while I’ve have had lots of principal leads in my 20 years at OXOPS, this is by far the biggest challenge I’ve taken on. So I want to make it my own – not to be a carbon copy.”
Even if it’s playing a baddie? “Ahh but is he?” Andy asks gleefully. “That’s the question we ask in this production by working on the relationship between Jesus and Judas, rather than just portraying Jesus as angsty and Judas as angry.
“This is more about the development of their relationship and how it deteriorates. It’s not just about a goodie and baddie, but that they’re also part of each other’s destinies, part and parcel of the complete picture.”
‘Jesus is played by Guy Grimsley, who is one of my best mates, which gives it real edge. it helps tap into the emotions because we have such a close relationship’
Still, presumably OXOPS can’t mess too much with a classic? “No of course not. People can still hum the tunes and will know the story and that’s a big draw. But we are trying to find the real people within, because whether you are spiritual and have faith or not, Judas and Jesus are still historical figures,” Andy points out.
“And as Jesus is played by Guy Grimsley, who happens to be one of my best mates, I think that gives it a real edge, it helps tap into the emotions because we have such a close relationship.”
Throw in an updated and rearranged adaption complete with electric guitars, drums and a thumping beat, and you’re in a for an impressive spectacle. “There is nothing twee about it – we perform in modern dress rather than flowing gowns, and the set has a contemporary aesthetic.
“Either way Jesus Christ Superstar is a classic, and from the off it has drama, emotion and some lighter moments, and we go on that journey with the audience. It’s really easy to get your teeth into.”
‘There is nothing twee about it – we perform in modern dress rather than flowing gowns and the set has a contemporary aesthetic’
“And that’s what OXOPS do. They choose musicals they think will be successful, sell tickets and entertain, as well as challenge the company, and Jesus Christ Superstar ticks all the boxes,” Andy says.
Jesus Christ Superstar is at Oxford Playhouse from July 8-13. https://www.oxfordplayhouse.com/events/jesus-christ-superstar
