British-Nigerian actress Cynthia Erivo has been cast as Jesus in the upcoming production of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl.
The announcement was made through Hollywood Bowl’s Instagram page, highlighting Erivo’s achievements as an Emmy, Grammy, and Tony winner, as well as a three-time Oscar nominee.
The rock musical, written by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, will run for three days from August 1 to August 3 at the Los Angeles amphitheater. It tells the story of the final days of Jesus Christ from the perspective of Judas Iscariot.
Sergio Terjuillo, a Colombian-American director and choreographer, will lead the production, while American musician Stephen Oremus will serve as the musical director and conductor.
Originally released as a concept album, Jesus Christ Superstar made its Broadway debut in 1971. By 1980, it had grossed over $237 million worldwide. The show also had a long run in London, holding the record for the longest-running West End musical until Cats surpassed it in 1989.
Since beginning her career in 2011, Erivo has gained global recognition for her performances on stage and screen.
