Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's Jesus Christ Superstar Arrives February 19 and 20
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – IU Auditorium is thrilled to present the highly anticipated 50th Anniversary Tour of the iconic musical Jesus Christ Superstar on February 19 and 20 at 7:30 p.m.
Featuring lyrics and music by Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony winner Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, the rock opera become a global phenomenon since its 1971 Broadway debut, captivating generations with its powerful storytelling and unforgettable music.
Jesus Christ Superstar is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” “Gethsemane,” and “Superstar.”
“Experience the timeless saga of Jesus Christ Superstar as it graces the IU Auditorium stage with the music and lyrics of legendary Broadway composers Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice,” said IU Auditorium Executive Director Maria Talbert. “This iconic rock opera is a mesmerizing journey through passion, betrayal, and the ultimate triumph of the human spirit.”
Jesus Christ Superstar is a proven musical phenomenon with a world-wide fan base. As demonstrated by NBC’s Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert, this epic work attracted over 9.6 million viewers, earned the highest ratings in its time period, and received the highest critical ranking of any live musical event on network TV. On September 17, 2021, a variety of special edition of Jesus Christ Superstar albums, remastered at Abbey Road, were released. These special anniversary editions are a celebration of the original 1970 double concept album and it’s continued success spanning an incredible 50 years.
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production of Jesus Christ Superstar won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival, selling out two consecutive engagements in 2016 and 2017. The production played a West End engagement at the Barbican in 2019 before returning to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in concert version during the summer of 2020.
Pre-Show Talk: The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber
Tuesday, February 20 at 6:30–7:15 p.m.
Woodburn Hall Room 121
Prior to the February 20 performance, Constance Cook, Director and Professor of Music in General Studies with the Jacobs School of Music, will present on the career of composer Andrew Lloyd Webber. This is a free public event and will conclude before the start of the performance at IU Auditorium.
Jesus Christ Superstar at IU Auditorium is presented in partnership with the Dermatology Center of Southern Indiana. IU Auditorium’s 2023–2024 season is presented by B97, CFC Properties, Curry Auto Center, The Herald Times, Upland Brewing Company, and World Arts Inc.