Theater Review

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‘Superstar’ is less than super

By Juliet Schoen/Staff Writer

The revival of “Jesus Christ Superstar,” playing at the Wilshire Theater in Beverly Hills, gives a rock beat to the greatest story ever told. Vignettes from the Bible are interpreted in a series of scenes featuring the music and lyrics of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. Unfortunately, it is difficult to make out the lyrics above the sound dominated by the drums.

Many of the songs have entered the popular culture and there are some strong singers and dancers to turn on the heat. Sweet-voiced Natalie Toro, as Mary Magdalene, sings two highlight numbers, “Everything’s Alright” and “I Don’t Know How to Love Him.”

The set, unfortunately, is far from heavenly. Two pillars along each side of the stage are equipped with pitons so that the more athletic members of the cast can climb up and down for no good reason. A cumbersome crosswalk is serviceable but hardly inspired. Peter J. Davison is the scenic designer.

The costumes are by Roger Kirk. The dancers in this updated version wear modern attire (including camouflage suits), but others are dressed in robes and various other period costumes.

The principals do well in their Biblical roles. Eric Kunze is a formidable Jesus, an Old Master in modern dress. Stephen Breithaupt plays Pontius Pilate, Barry Dennen in King Herod, Todd Fournier is Simon Zealotes and James Clow is Peter. Others featured are Lawson Skala and Jeffrey Polk.

“Superstar” does not hold up as well as its source.