You could say there are two superstars in this powerful and polished revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's popular 1970s rock musical. Of course there's the title character, Jesus Christ, whose final days are dramatically depicted through Webber's memorable music and Rice's moving lyrics.
Then there's Sebastian Bach, the erstwhile hard-rocker who portrays the Messiah. Formerly the lead singer for the metal band Skid Row, Bach certainly has firsthand experience with superstardom, a background that serves him well here, poignantly emphasizing Christ's more vulnerable mortal traits and his once-controversial status as a spiritual leader. At first glance it's clear Bach physically suits the role, with his lithe, tall frame and luxurious blond mane. In voice and carriage, however, Bach breaks the usual mold for this role, with a cool, confident rock persona that electrifies the show. And although Bach dips into his repertoire of heavy-metal-type wailing a few times too often, he nevertheless offers a vocal quality that can be both tortured and gentle-and in tune with the intense emotions of his character.
Under Kevin Moriarty's precise yet flowing direction, Bach's bold presence blends well with the extremely talented ensemble gathered here. Especially mesmerizing is Carl Anderson as the infamous traitor Judas-a role he's filled both on Broadway and in film. His alternately velvety and throaty voice consistently rings with passion, most notably in the opener, "Heaven on Their Minds," and in the glitzy title song, "Superstar." This latter showstopper also highlights the combined talents of choreographer Dana Solimando and the skilled design team, which includes costumer Roger Kirk, lighting designer Mark McCullough, and scenic designer Peter J. Davison. Solimando's creative dance pieces are especially effective throughout the program.
As Mary Magdalene, sweet-voiced Natalie Toro also turns in a few arresting numbers, including Mary's signature song, "I Don't Know How To Love Him." In this fervent confession, she simply but achingly conveys Mary's tender feelings. Other memorable performances also light up the stage, but the more indelible individuals include the deep-voiced Lawson Skala, who plays Christ's ruthless persecutor Caiaphas, and Peter Kevoian, who plays the profligate and disdainful King Herod. In his only number, the flashy "King Herod's Song," Kevoian revels in Herod's strutting antics, which snidely mock Jesus and his alleged status as the son of God. Also pulling out all the stops once again in this number are Solimando and Davison, who pour on the glitz and glamour to make this number-and by extension the rest of the production-a dazzling display for the senses.
"Jesus Christ Superstar," presented by The Really Useful Superstar Company Inc., Nederlander Presentations Inc., and McCoy Rigby Entertainment at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, 14900 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada. Tues.-Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2:30 & 8 p.m., Sun. 2:30 & 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1-17. $30-38. (562) 944-9801.