Jesus Christ Superstar Arrives in Manila 2026
The Iconic Musical "Jesus Christ Superstar" to Make Its Way to the Philippines
The renowned musical "Jesus Christ Superstar," created by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, is set to make its international tour in the Philippines next year. This production, which has captivated audiences for decades, offers a unique perspective on the events surrounding the Passion of the Christ as told through the eyes of Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus' disciples who ultimately betrays him.
The musical delves into the complex relationships between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, other disciples, and the Roman Empire. It explores themes of faith, betrayal, and redemption, all while presenting some of the most iconic songs in musical theater history. Among these are "Gethsemane," "Everything's Alright," "This Jesus Must Die," "I Don't Know How To Love Him," and the unforgettable "Superstar."
A Legacy of Success
"Jesus Christ Superstar" first premiered on Broadway in 1971 with Jeff Fenholt portraying Jesus and Ben Vereen as Judas. The show ran for over 700 performances in two years and received five Tony Award nominations, including Best Performance - Featured Actor (Musical) for Vereen and Best Original Score for Webber and Rice.
The West End version of the musical opened in 1972, featuring Paul Nicholas as Jesus and Stephen Tate as Judas. It ran for eight years and became the longest-running musical in the United Kingdom at the time, closing after 3,358 performances.
Over the years, the show has seen multiple revivals, including three Broadway versions, an arena tour, and several productions at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in London. One of these productions won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival, further solidifying the musical's legacy.
A New Production Coming to Manila
The upcoming Manila run of "Jesus Christ Superstar" will be a reimagining of the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production, directed by Timothy Sheader and choreographed by Drew McOnie. The show will take place at the Theatre at Solaire from May 2 to 24, 2026, and is presented by GMG Productions.
Show producer David Ian of Crossroads Live and Work Light Productions expressed excitement about bringing this iconic musical to Manila, following previous tour stops in Australia and the United Kingdom. "This Olivier Award-winning production has amazed audiences around the world with its raw energy and breathtaking performances," he said. "Whether you've loved the show for decades or are discovering it for the first time, this will be an unforgettable experience."
Carlos Candal, head of GMG, echoed Ian’s enthusiasm, emphasizing that "Jesus Christ Superstar" is a show that transcends generations. "Its music and story continue to inspire audiences, and we can't wait for Filipino fans to experience this powerful production live," he added.
Ticket Information and Upcoming Details
Tickets for the Manila run will be available starting November 8 via TicketWorld. However, there will be a pre-sale period for UnionBank of the Philippines members from November 3 to 7. The cast for the production will be announced soon, generating excitement among theater enthusiasts across the country.
With its rich history, compelling storytelling, and unforgettable music, "Jesus Christ Superstar" promises to be a must-see event for audiences in the Philippines. Whether you're a longtime fan of the musical or experiencing it for the first time, this production is sure to leave a lasting impression.
