JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR Weymouth Pavilion

A FULL house welcomed Weymouth Operatic Society back into the Pavilion theatre for their latest production – and what a stunning production it is.

The all-singing, all-dancing rock opera tells the story of the final days before the crucifixion of Jesus as his enemies conspire to rid themselves of him while his supporters cannot see that trouble is brewing.

A large and mainly youthful cast inject enthusiasm and energy into this modern-dress musical by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber which brings with it a number of challenges, not least finding a large number of men performers, no small task for any amateur company.

Top of the bill is Tom Howden as Jesus who brings passion and dignity to the role while the gorgeous voice of Stella Brading is on top form as the love interest Mary Magdalene.

Villain of the piece is Judas, the apostle who betrays Jesus, played with stern masculinity by Simon Dunford, a commanding figure with a considerable stage presence.

Even such an emotionally charged production as this particular show needs a bit of comic relief and this is supplied in large measure by Paul Brewster as Herod who, dressed in spangles and accompanied by a quartet of dancers, sings his way into the hearts of the whole audience with his wildly over-the-top performance as a luvvie Roman emperor.

David Clinch is a serious-minded Pilate while Tom Matthews and David Roberts are the apostles Peter and Simon, all the leading roles augmented by a handful of priests and a large chorus line-up.

An unadorned set is the perfect choice for this powerful story and Sam Ryall on keyboards leads a five piece band with impeccable skill that never flags for a second while Martine Burt, director and choreographer, is proving to be a highly valuable member of the group, her sensitive direction having the hallmark of a finely tuned professional.

The production continues for the rest of the week with a matinee on Saturday and the town is certain to turn up in droves to show its support not only for a great musical but for a theatre that is in good health once again.

Marion Cox