Eurovision Star Sam Ryder to Lead Jesus Christ Superstar
Sam Ryder, the singer-songwriter famous for his 2022 Eurovision hit Space Man, is set to take on the lead role in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s rock opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, opening next summer at the London Palladium.
Theatrical Debut for Ryder
Ryder, who revitalized the UK’s Eurovision standing by finishing second in the contest, will make his theatre debut in this iconic musical. This production is a reimagined version of the 2016 staging by director Timothy Sheader, originally created for Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. It enjoyed two additional runs there, transferred to the Barbican, and toured the UK and the US.
Producer and Ryder on the New Production
"In Sam we have a true superstar to play the iconic title role."
"Jesus Christ Superstar is one of the biggest institutions in musical theatre the world’s ever known."
"I am honoured to follow in the footsteps of rock vocal titans like Ian Gillan and John Farnham."
About Jesus Christ Superstar
- The London Palladium, owned by composer Andrew Lloyd Webber, will host the production.
- The rock opera was originally a 1970 concept album by Lloyd Webber and lyricist Tim Rice featuring Ian Gillan as Christ.
- It made its Broadway debut in 1971 and opened in London’s West End in 1972, starring Paul Nicholas as Jesus.
- When it closed in 1980, it was the longest-running musical in West End history at that point.
Summary: Sam Ryder, famed for his Eurovision success, will star in the reimagined Jesus Christ Superstar at the London Palladium, stepping into the legacy of legendary rock theatre performers.