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BLOG: The Controversy of Jesus Christ Superstar - By Elliot James


The rock-opera was not as controversial as it might have been, however the

show has been condemned through the years by a few religious groups. South

Africa went so far as to ban the show for being ‘irreligious’. Sir Tim Rice did not

see Christ as God but simply as the right man at the right time and in the right

place. This was indeed blasphemous to some, as was a somewhat sympathetic

portrayal of Judas. The lack of reference to the resurrection also irked many.


Although Rice and Webber made the bold move to end the show with the

crucifixion, which means directors can decide how to portray Jesus during the

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