Jesus Christ Superstar, Dionysis Theatre Company, Gala Theatre, Durham

Youth theatre group Dionysis set itself a tall task following its successful maiden summer show, Oliver!, last year, with an ambitious production at the Gala Theatre.

A cast and chorus of more than 100 had less than a fortnight preparation, but the intensive rehearsals paid off, with a confident opening night performance of the Tim Rice/Andrew Lloyd Webber classic.

The performers, many already far from novices on the stage, put on a polished production of the rock musical version of the biblical tale for an appreciative full house.

Few first night nerves appeared as the principals relished their moment in the spotlight and made the most of the professional setting.

Guy Swinton gave a strong performance in the lead role, earning particular admiration for holding on well to a tricky falsetto note in one of the numbers and for a convincing death scene display.

Possibly the outstanding performer was Simon Eltringham, as Judas Iscariot, peaking with the title song, backed by the full chorus.

Bouquets also to Mary Magdalene, Clare Wilkinson, with her distinctive singing voice, the camp King Herod, James Venis, and his troup of dancing girls, plus female apostle Peter, Laura Kelly, particularly for her excellent duet with Mary.

There were post-show compliments for musical director Jonathan Newell's orchestra.

Hugh Conway and his production team have now set themselves a dilemma in trying to go one better for the summer show of 2004.

* The show finishes tonight with a performance at 7.30pm, and matinee, at 2pm. Tickets from the box office on 0191-332 4041.

Bruce Unwin