Everything You Need to Know About Jesus Christ Superstar (And Why You Need a Ticket)

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

I know I always throw people off when I talk about loving rock music and Broadway musicals, but here I am, and I have zero regrets. That’s exactly why I jumped at the chance to see Jesus Christ Superstar at Lyric Opera of Chicago last week. Let me tell you: this is one of the best shows I have ever seen, and I have so many reasons why you need to go.

What Is Jesus Christ Superstar About?

If you’re wondering what Jesus Christ Superstar is about, here’s the quick version: it’s one of the greatest stories ever told, reimagined as an iconic rock musical that completely reinvented musical theater. Andrew Lloyd Webber composed the music, and Tim Rice wrote the Jesus Christ Superstar lyrics that have resonated with audiences for decades. This global blockbuster follows the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ told entirely from the perspective of Judas Iscariot. As Christ’s followers grow more fervent, Judas faces his fateful choice between faith and betrayal. You will hold your breath the entire time.

Lyric Opera of Chicago: A Venue Worth the Visit

Before I even get into the Jesus Christ Superstar cast, I have to talk about Lyric Opera of Chicago, because I had never been there before and it is genuinely awe-inspiring. Here are a few things that blew my mind: when you stand on that stage, you look out over an entire city block. The building rises six stories high, and the architecture blends Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles into something truly stunning. It is the pinnacle of Chicago’s entertainment scene, and it deserves a spot on your must-visit list.

For this production of Jesus Christ Superstar, the creative team moved the orchestra out of the pit and placed all 37 musicians at the back of the stage. That decision opened up 74 exclusive front-row pit seats with a view you simply cannot get anywhere else.

The Stars of Jesus Christ Superstar

Now, onto the stars of Jesus Christ Superstar, because the cast absolutely delivers.

The stage runs intimate rather than massive, which means you feel every single moment up close. Over 80 artists appear throughout the performance alongside 9 principal actors, and the energy never lets up. The diverse cast impressed me from start to finish, and the Jesus Christ Superstar songs will give you full-body goosebumps.

Heath Sanders

Heath Sanders plays Jesus, and honestly, he looks and sounds exactly like you’d picture. 

Jo Lampert

Jo Lampert plays Mary, and she stole the show for me completely. Her voice carries so much pain and sorrow that you feel it in your chest. Her performances of Everything’s Alright and I Don’t Know How to Love Him were two of the most powerful moments of the night. Those Jesus Christ Superstar songs hit differently when she delivers them.

Cavin Cornwell

Cavin Cornwell plays Caiaphas, and his deep baritone voice genuinely catches you off guard. You cannot take your eyes off him, and the detail that his staff doubles as his microphone? Brilliant. 

Shaun Fleming’s take on Herod is an absolute showstopper, especially during his signature song. Pure fun from start to finish.

The Costumes

The Jesus Christ Superstar plot gives the costume designers plenty to work with, and they run with it. This production features over 150 costumes, each one adding to the visual spectacle. One standout detail: Herod’s cape measures 25 feet long. Twenty-five feet. It is every bit as dramatic as it sounds.

Go See It

The Jesus Christ Superstar cast, the venue, the songs, the costumes – everything comes together into a show unlike anything you have experienced before. I can say that with full confidence.

When you grab your tickets, use code THOUGHTS to save 20%*! The run includes 25 performances from April 27 through May 20, with tickets starting as low as $29. Seeing a Broadway musical inside Lyric Opera House is an experience that is absolutely worth having.

*Offer is subject to availability, available for Monday-Saturday performances only, and not applicable to Main Floor Prime or Box seating. Not valid on previously purchased tickets or in combination with another offer. Only specially allocated seat locations can be assigned. Prices subject to change. Exchanges are not guaranteed and discount may not carry over. Fees apply. Expires at the discretion of management.