Rock opera ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ arrives in Manila this May

The Olivier Award-winning Regent’s Park revival brings its raw, rock-concert energy to The Theatre at Solaire for a strictly limited engagement.

The Olivier Award-winning reimagined production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic rock opera, “Jesus Christ Superstar,” is scheduled to open at The Theater at Solaire on May 2. 

The Filipino connection: from Joana Ampil to today

Filipino audiences share a historical connection with the title; renowned actress Joana Ampil notably portrayed Mary Magdalene in the 1996 West End production. 

The musical, which has seen sold-out runs in London, North America, and Australia, will play a limited engagement in Manila through May 24.

Casting and international buzz

Despite the lack of finalized casting for the Manila leg, the international tour continues to garner significant attention. It is slated to return to London with an 11-week residency at the London Palladium starting June 20, with Eurovision star Sam Ryder taking on the title role for his West End debut.

Production highlights & history

Originally conceived as a 1970 concept album, the musical provides a modern interpretation of the final days of Jesus Christ as seen through the eyes of Judas. 

In August 2025, a star-studded production was held at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, featuring Cynthia Erivo as Jesus, Adam Lambert as Judas, and Phillipa Soo as Mary Magdalene. In the same year, Paul Hart directed a unique actor-musician revival at the Watermill Theatre in Newbury, running from June to September.

Tickets for the Manila performances are currently available through GMG Productions.

 

 

Filipino audiences share a historical connection with the title; renowned actress Joana Ampil notably portrayed Mary Magdalene in the 1996 West End production.

 

 

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