When I was a teenager in the early 1990’s, I was asked on a date to the theater. This was the first time I had ever been to a live production of any kind. I did not know what to expect or that it this would be the beginning of a lifelong love of theater. I got dressed up and arrived to the theater, in awe of the spectacular building where the show was to be performed. We found our seats–box seats-and settled in. The lights dimmed, the curtain rose, and the music erupted.  The loud booming music shook me to my core. I was absolutely enthralled!

That show was Jesus Christ Superstar and the theater was Denver’s own Buell Theatre. Fast forward 30 years (ah, really?!) and that is where we found ourselves again last night* to see the very same musical. I was delighted to get to revisit the Buell Theatre again, as it has been quite some time since I moved away from Denver. But within the gorgeous walls of the building, I got to see classics like Phantom of the Opera and Les Miserables for the very first time. To me, it is a very special place.

In town for a limited engagement, Jesus Christ Superstar is touring again, celebrating its golden anniversary–50 years! This revival has been exceptionally popular since debuting in London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theater. It won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival. Directed by Timothy Sheader and choreographed by Drew McOnie, this production is a modern take on the classic production that I had seen originally back in the day. With lyrics and music by Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony winners Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, Jesus Christ Superstar is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ as seen through the eyes of Judas.

I remember Buell Theatre, part of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, being an amazing venue. When we arrived there, I was happy to find that it remained so.

We found our seats within the theater and prepared for the production to begin. The lights dimmed, the curtain rose, and just as it had the first time I saw this show three decades before, the music erupted and I felt it to my core. The sensation was absolutely thrilling!

If you are not familiar with this particular show, it is a departure from other Andrew Lloyd Webber musicals. It’s important to note the roots of it is all rock. It is set as if it were a rock concert. The setting, the lights and sounds reflect this and you are completely encompassed in that environment and your senses are saturated in it all. There are very powerful songs in this show and you will enjoy the standout voice of Mary. I loved “Everything’s Alright” especially. Included in the ensemble of this touring production was Colorado native, Joshua Bess. It’s always wonderful to see local talent as part of a Broadway tour.

This new, modern take on Jesus Christ Superstar feels quite ethereal. It is an experience unlike any other! The audience could not get enough of the musical and it was evident. 

I was happy to be back at the Buell Theatre for a night of exquisite entertainment. The theater and acoustics were phenomenal and I can’t wait to return again. The 2023-2024 Broadway season is in full swing and there are many more spectacular shows in the queue, like Chicago, Hairspray, and Wicked. You won’t want to miss the opportunity to see these Broadway shows in your own hometown.

Jesus Christ Superstar is now playing at the Buell Theater in Denver until January 28, 2024. To learn more about the show and to purchase your own tickets, visit them online.

^{*we were invited to facilitate a feature, all opinions are our own*}