THIS is a challenging show for both cast and audience, dealing with the last agonised days of Christ's life. It is tackled by a large ensemble from the long established operatic society and overall, is carried off to great success.

The beginning of the rock opera sees Judas becoming increasingly concerned by Jesus's escalating 'superstar' status. Watching him among the adoring crowds and hearing him defend fallen woman Mary Magdalene, he becomes convinced that he is just a man and not a messiah.

The set remains fixed throughout and works well, enabling the action to progress smoothly without awkward scene changes. Colourful costumes and lots of chorus singing and dancing ensure there's plenty going on. However, this show is essentially dark, culminating in Christ's death on the cross, and this element is brought out with subdued lighting. The principals ensure that emotions are kept high with sensitive, heartfelt performances.

Special praise must go to Mark Morris, who plays Jesus with passion and intensity, and Louise Henderson as Mary Magdalene, whose pure voice and mature performance would make a West End career easily within her grasp. Scott Allenby brought the house down as a camp Herod, and James Nelson acted his socks off as priest Annas. My only criticism is that the songs were sometimes slightly beyond the vocal ranges of the singers.

* Runs until Saturday. Box office 0870 9055061

Published: 28/04/2005