Jesus Christ Superstar, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton

THE Olivier Award-winning reimagined production of Jesus Christ Superstar will star Julian Clary in the role of Herod at Southampton Mayflower Theatre.

Julian joins the lead cast – Ian McIntosh (Jesus), Shem Omari James (Judas) and Hannah Richardson (Mary) – playing Herod from Thursday 28th to Saturday 30th March.

Featuring lyrics and music by Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony winners Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, the production has been reimagined by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, where it originated. At its helm is director Timothy Sheader and choreographer Drew McOnie.

A global phenomenon that has wowed audiences for decades, Jesus Christ Superstar’s iconic 1970s rock score was originally released as a concept album and opened on Broadway in 1971 at the Mark Hellinger Theatre.

The original London production ran for more than eight years. By the time it closed, after 3,358 performances, it had become the longest-running musical in West End history at that time.

Jesus Christ Superstar has been reproduced regularly around the world in the years since its first appearance, with performances including a Broadway revival in 2012, an ITV show called Superstar that led to casting Ben Forster as Jesus in an arena tour of the show, and a production at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre celebrating 45 years since the musical’s Broadway debut.

The musical is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks in the life of Jesus, as seen through the eyes of Judas. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Gethsemane and Superstar.

Jesus Christ Superstar is at the Mayflower Theatre from Monday 25th to Saturday 30th March – with Julian appearing only between Thursday and Saturday. Tickets are from £19.50. To book visit mayflower.org.uk or call 023 8071 1811.