Eurovision Star Sam Ryder to Star as Jesus Christ in Superstar
Sam Ryder, the singer-songwriter behind the 2022 Eurovision hit Space Man, will take the lead role in Jesus Christ Superstar at the London Palladium. Known for revitalizing the UK’s Eurovision success by finishing second, this will be Ryder’s first major theatrical role.
New Production and Background
This production is a reimagined version of director Timothy Sheader’s 2016 staging at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, which enjoyed two additional runs. It also moved to the Barbican and toured across the UK and US.
Producer Michael Harrison expressed excitement about the Palladium-specific version, saying:
“It is thrilling to have a new version created especially for the Palladium. In Sam, we have a true superstar to play the iconic title role.”
Legacy and Honours
Ryder described Jesus Christ Superstar as “one of the biggest institutions in musical theatre the world’s ever known,” and feels privileged to follow legendary rock vocalists who previously played Jesus, such as Ian Gillan and John Farnham.
The London Palladium is owned by Andrew Lloyd Webber, who composed Jesus Christ Superstar with lyricist Tim Rice as a concept album in 1970. The album featured Ian Gillan portraying Christ during his final days. The musical won acclaim on Broadway in 1971 and opened in London in 1972 starring Paul Nicholas. By the time it closed in 1980, it was the longest-running musical in West End history.
Summary
Sam Ryder’s debut in the iconic title role marks a new chapter for Jesus Christ Superstar, blending historic legacy with fresh rock talent at the London Palladium.