Eurovision Star Sam Ryder to Star in Jesus Christ Superstar
Sam Ryder, the singer-songwriter famous for his 2022 Eurovision hit Space Man, will take on the lead role in Jesus Christ Superstar at the London Palladium. This marks Ryder’s theatrical debut, following his notable success of coming second for the UK at Eurovision.
About the Production
The show is a reimagined version of director Timothy Sheader’s 2016 production for Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, which enjoyed multiple runs before touring the UK and US and playing at the Barbican.
Producer Michael Harrison said it was “thrilling” to have a new version created especially for the Palladium, adding: “In Sam we have a true superstar to play the iconic title role.”
Sam Ryder on His Role
Ryder expressed his pride in joining a legacy of legendary performers, calling Jesus Christ Superstar “one of the biggest institutions in musical theatre the world’s ever known.” He honored to follow the footsteps of “rock vocal titans like Ian Gillan and John Farnham.”
Historical Context
The London Palladium is owned by Andrew Lloyd Webber, who co-created Jesus Christ Superstar with lyricist Tim Rice as a 1970 concept album featuring Ian Gillan as Jesus in his final days. The musical then achieved success on Broadway in 1971 and opened in London in 1972 with Paul Nicholas in the lead role.
When it closed in 1980, it held the record as the longest-running musical in the West End at the time.
Summary
Sam Ryder's casting as Jesus marks a fresh chapter for the classic rock opera, promising a vibrant revival at the London Palladium underlined by his star power and respect for theatrical legends.