Cynthia Erivo to portray Jesus in ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ musical
Cynthia Erivo to play Jesus in Hollywood Bowl’s ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ production | Image: Instagram/@hollywoodbowl via @cynthiaerivo
Award-winning singer and actress Cynthia Erivo is set to make history as the first woman to lead a high-profile adaptation of “Jesus Christ Superstar,” taking on the role of the Son of God in Hollywood Bowl’s upcoming production.
On her Instagram story, Erivo shared the news of her casting in the Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s classical musical, writing in the caption, “Just a little busy this Summer [wink emoji] Can’t wait.”
Image: Instagram/@cynthiaerivo
The 38-year-old star has previously starred as Mary Magdalene in an all-female version of the hit musical in 2020, popularizing the musical number “I Don’t Know How to Love Him.”
If small, experimental stage productions will be included, Erivo is not the first woman to portray the character as Amy Ray of Indigo Girls already played Jesus in the 1994 “Jesus Christ Superstar: A Resurrection.”
The production of “Jesus Christ Superstar” will begin on Aug. 1 to 3 at the Hollywood Bowl. More casting is expected to be announced at a later date.
Tony Award winner Sergio Trujillo is serving as director and choreographer for the show, while Tony winner Stephen Oremus is set to serve as musical director and conductor.
According to the website’s synopsis, “the story, told entirely through song, explores the personal relationships and struggles between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, Jesus’ disciples, his followers and the Roman Empire.”
Before having its Broadway debut in 1971, “Jesus Christ Superstar” was originally released as a concept album, which includes the hits “Superstar,” “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” and “Gethsemane.”
Meanwhile, Erivo is fresh from the success of her award-winning musical film “Wicked,” in which she starred alongside Ariana Grande.
Both actresses have earned nominations in this year’s Oscars for their portrayals, Erivo is nominated for Best Lead Actress for her performance as Elphaba, while Grande is nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Glinda.
