The sheer power of Jesus Christ Superstar is why, 44 years on from its first run, it still pulls big audiences.
From the opening bars, it's a rollercoaster of love, hope, betrayal, politics and pain — brought to loud, rock-opera life by Andrew Lloyd Webber's incredible score.
More than one moment gave me goosebumps: the joyful, uplifting chorus of Hosanna and the desperate, soul-searching anguish of Gethsemane to name but two.
The show explores the last seven days of Jesus, through the eyes of Judas Iscariot, revealing the torment of a man who loves his leader but fears the myth that goes before the man.
It's a huge, challenging vocal part — but Tim Rogers' rock vocals delivered, expertly capturing Judas' despair as he betrays Christ and battles with his guilt.
His edgy performance was the perfect contrast to Glenn Carter's smooth, polished turn as the so-called 'King of the Jews'.
A veteran in the role, Carter was instantly believable — and the ease in which his smooth, calming vocals switched to tortured, shrieking falsetto was awe-inspiring, particularly in Gethsemane.
Rachel Adedeji's beautiful vocals made Mary Magdalene's torch song, I Don't Know How To Love Him, a stirring, emotional moment. As an X Factor finalist, her vocals were impressive — and the control and professionalism in her performance of Mary revealed just how far she's come since then.
Tom Gilling's King Herod stole the spotlight in the show's only comic number, with wonderful choreography and just the right amount of camp, and Cavin Cornwall's booming bass as Caiaphas made This Jesus Much Die a highlight of the first act.
Johnathan Tweedie's initially level-headed but ultimately frustrated Pontious Pilate, coupled with the baying crowd calling for Jesus' death, made for a powerful rendition of Trial Before Pilate.
A big hat tip must also go to the wonderfully talented child cast who made Hosanna and Superstar so moving.
The intensity of Jesus arrest, trial and crucifixion made for appropriately uncomfortable viewing, and the production's clever use of lighting with a minimalist set excelled in the final scenes.
Jesus Christ Superstar doesn't need complex scenery or set changes to tell its story — the sharp, intelligent lyrics by Tim Rice and the booming prog-rock score produce a rich, complex, layered narrative that asks searching questions about the role of Christ and his enduring legacy.
It's a theatrical tour-de-force, and the latest production, directed by Bob Tomson and Bill Kenwright, won a much-deserved standing ovation at the Grand last night. And I'm sure it won't be the last.
Jesus Christ Superstar is at Leeds Grand Theatre from Monday July 6 to Saturday July 11.
Tickets cost £18.50-£40 — book online or call the Box Office on 0844 848 2700.
