Singer will take to the Hull New Theatre stage in an ‘extraordinary new production’
Sam Ryder is to star as Jesus in the touring production of Jesus Christ Superstar, coming to Hull New Theatre in October 2027(Image: Jack Robinson)
Sam Ryder, the creator of hit Eurovision song Space Man, is to appear in Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic global phenomenon, Jesus Christ Superstar, when it pays a visit to Hull. Sam has been announced in the starring role of Jesus in the brand-new UK and Ireland tour of the rock musical.
It will launch in Manchester in February, before travelling across the country. The production will make a stop at Hull New Theatre from Tuesday to Saturday, October 12 to 16, 2027.
Talking to BBC ’s The One Show about his highly anticipated take on the role, Sam said he was “thrilled to be part of it”. He said that over the last six years it was probably the “most fun I’ve had singing” and described it as “something that just stirs the soul”.
Sam said: “For me, it’s so culturally relevant because it shows us this all too common scene of the adoring masses that turn into the angry mob that bay for the blood of this man.” He said: “I’m a massive fan of the score – every single metal head and rock fan and prog fan around the world knows and loves this score.”
Michael Harrison, producer of Jesus Christ Superstar, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Jesus Christ Superstar will embark on a major UK tour following the phenomenal response to this extraordinary new production. The tremendous buzz generated by [the] first performance at The London Palladium underlines just how special this iconic musical remains, and we are thrilled that audiences across the country will now have the opportunity to experience Tim Sheader’s visionary staging, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary score, and Sam Ryder’s electrifying performance.
“This is fantastic news for touring theatre and audiences throughout the UK, ensuring that this remarkable production can be enjoyed by many more people, following our seasons at The London Palladium and Theatre Royal Drury Lane.”
Jesus Christ Superstar follows the events of the last days of the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Gethsemane and the iconic title number, Superstar. Originally released as a concept album, Jesus Christ Superstar opened on Broadway in 1971, at the Mark Hellinger Theatre, where it was nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Original Score.
The debut London production ran for more than eight years. When it closed, after 3,358 performances, it was the longest-running musical in West End history.
This spectacular production is directed by Tim Sheader with choreography by Olivier Award-winner Drew McOnie and design by Tony and Olivier Award-winner Tom Scutt, reuniting the creative team of the 2016 production to create a unique staging of the worldwide smash-hit show.
The production, which was originally created and produced at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, heads out on a tour of the UK following an 11-week season at The London Palladium and a 12-week season at Theatre Royal Drury Lane. Tickets are on sale now for the Hull run – book at the Hull City Hall Box Office, call 01482 300 306 or visit hulltheatres.co.uk