JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR

In this fittingly full-throttle concert version of the original rock opera musical, staged in New York in 2018, the sets, costumes and staging are suitably biblical in excess, matching Andrew Lloyd-webber’s bombastic score.

The tale of Jesus’ rise and fall is elevated by the inspired casting of John Legend. He’s a little smooth around the edges (his cosy knitwear doesn’t help) but he brings charisma and an impressive vocal range to one of the toughest roles in musical theatre.

As Mary Magdalene, Sara Bareilles’ honeyed voice and innate sincerity shine, especially on the gorgeous I Don’t Know How To Love Him. Hamilton star Brandon Victor Dixon as a powerful and conflicted Judas and The Crown’s Ben Daniels as Pontius Pilate are treats enough, but then, descending from the scaffolding in a glittering orange suit and big hair, comes Alice Cooper as Herod. There’s nothing subtle about this production but it packs plenty of punch and the final crucifixion and ascension are stunningly staged.