From August 1–3, 2025, the Hollywood Bowl hosted a dazzling revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar. With Cynthia Erivo as Jesus and Adam Lambert as Judas, this production quickly became one of the year’s most talked-about theatrical events.
Bold and Brilliant Casting
Cynthia Erivo, an Oscar, Grammy, and Tony winner, took on the role of Jesus in a bold and unforgettable performance. Her powerhouse vocals and emotional depth brought both vulnerability and strength, leaving audiences mesmerized.
Adam Lambert, the internationally renowned pop star and Queen’s lead singer, played Judas. With his wide vocal range and dramatic flair, Lambert portrayed Judas as conflicted, charismatic, and deeply human, creating a portrayal that resonated with everyone in the audience.
Musical Highlights
The production featured all the classic numbers with fresh, contemporary arrangements by musical director Stephen Oremus:
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“Heaven on Their Minds” – Lambert opened with soaring vocals that immediately grabbed attention.
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“Gethsemane” – Erivo’s emotional performance earned a prolonged standing ovation.
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“Superstar” – The climactic ensemble number combined high energy, stunning visuals, and audience excitement.
Creative Vision
Directed and choreographed by Sergio Trujillo, the show balanced the spectacle of a rock concert with intimate, character-driven storytelling. Modern costumes, dynamic lighting, and multimedia projections gave the classic musical a contemporary edge, while the open-air Hollywood Bowl added an epic, cinematic feel.
Audience and Critical Response
Critics praised the production as “a bold and timely reimagining.” The Guardian highlighted Erivo’s “transcendent vocals” and Lambert’s “electrifying stage presence,” noting the undeniable chemistry between the leads. Fans shared clips and photos online, many calling it the best live musical experience of their lives.
A Lasting Legacy
This revival will be remembered not just for its star power but for breathing new life into a beloved classic. With Erivo and Lambert at the helm, Jesus Christ Superstar proved that its timeless themes of love, betrayal, and redemption continue to resonate, more than 50 years after its debut.