Cover Jack Hopewell and the company of the North American Tour of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’. (Photo: Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade)
Jack Hopewell and the company of the North American Tour of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’. (Photo: Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade)
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GMG Productions brings to the Theatre at Solaire the award-winning production of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, running from May 2 to 24
Celebrated for its groundbreaking perspective in retelling “the greatest story ever told”, Jesus Christ Superstar by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice continues to make rounds worldwide with its international tour and several local stagings, including the recent one at The Hollywood Bowl. This May 2026, it‘s Manila’s chance to witness this spectacular reimagining of the 1971 Broadway classic as the international touring production comes to The Theatre at Solaire.
The 2017 Laurence Olivier-winning revival by The Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre is what Filipino theatre lovers must expect to see, as GMG Productions, together with David Ian for Crossroads Live and Work Light Production, have made it possible. Helmed by director Timothy Sheader and choreographed by Drew McOnie, this refreshed staging does not shy away from utilising modern theatre technology to showcase the Rice-Webber classic in a more modern, rock-concert-style production teeming with high energy, dynamic choreography and contemporary costumes. Many details of the Manila run are yet to be revealed but should we expect The Theatre at Solaire’s audience seats to be reconfigured to achieve the revival’s immersive, in-the-round experience? Let’s see.
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Above Poster for the Manila run of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ this May 2026 (Photo: GMG Productions)
Poster for the Manila run of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ this May 2026 (Photo: GMG Productions)
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A global phenomenon that has wowed audiences for decades, Jesus Christ Superstar is a timeless work that explores the biblical portrayal of the extraordinary events that led to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ as seen through the eyes of his betrayer, Judas Iscariot. The story, told entirely through song, explores the personal relationships and struggles among Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, Jesus’s disciples, his followers and the Roman Empire. Originally released as a concept album, the iconic 1970s rock score contains such well-known numbers as Superstar, I Don’t Know How to Love Him and Gethsemane.
“We’re beyond thrilled to bring one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most iconic and influential musicals of all time to Manila,” says Carlos Candal, CEO of GMG Productions. “Jesus Christ Superstar is a show that transcends generations. Its music and story continue to inspire audiences, and we can’t wait for Filipino fans to experience this powerful production live.”
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Above The North American Tour company of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ (Photo: Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade)
The North American Tour company of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ (Photo: Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade)
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Jesus Christ Superstar opened on Broadway in 1971 at the Mark Hellinger Theatre. The original London production opened at the Palace Theatre on August 9, 1972 and ran for over eight years. By the time it closed, after 3,358 performances, it had become the longest-running musical in West End history at that time. Jesus Christ Superstar has been reproduced regularly around the world in the years since its first appearance, with performances including a Broadway revival in 2012, an ITV competition TV show called Superstar that led to casting Ben Forster as Jesus in an arena tour of the show, and a production at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre celebrating 45 years since the musical’s Broadway debut.
Filipino artists are no strangers to this beloved musical. OPM and pop culture landmark, The '70s Bistro, staged the said musical in 2000 with Noel Cabangon as Jesus, Rico Blanco of Rivermaya as Judas Iscariot, and Jett Pangan of The Dawn as Pontius Pilate. Another rock icon, Basti Artadi of Wolfgang, donned the hallowed shroud in the 2001 staging of Atlantis Productions. Lastly, West End star Joanna Ampil portrayed Mary Magdalene in the 1996 to 1998 season of Jesus Christ Superstar in London, and would reprise the role in 2019 for a Tokyo production.
Above The North American Tour company of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ (Photo: Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade)
The North American Tour company of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ (Photo: Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade)
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“After incredible success in Australia and the UK, we’re delighted to be bringing Jesus Christ Superstar to Manila,” says producer David Ian. “This Olivier Award-winning production has amazed audiences around the world with its raw energy and breathtaking performances. Whether you’ve loved the show for decades or are discovering it for the first time, this will be an unforgettable experience.”
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About
Before assuming the Art and Culture Editor position, Franz has always had a penchant for visual and performing arts. He is passionate about exploring and writing about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright.
Work
Franz earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas. He writes about local visual and performing artists and their craft; drinks wines, liquors, and spirits and talks about the creativity of their respective winemakers and master blenders; tries to learn more about business and investments; respects the tradition and artistry that go behind the making of watches and jewellery; and appreciates the genius of architecture and creative design.
As head of Tatler Philippines’ pool of writers, he helps them bring impactful and socially relevant stories to light.
For any leads, you may reach him through @franzsorillaiv on Instagram or franz@tatlerphilippines.com via email.
