From Wicked Witch to Divine: Erivo Takes on Jesus at Hollywood Bowl
Mia Reynolds, 2/19/2025Cynthia Erivo boldly transitions from Elphaba to Jesus Christ in "Jesus Christ Superstar" at the Hollywood Bowl. This landmark casting reflects a fresh take on biblical narratives, promising a powerful return of summer musicals alongside an exciting lineup featuring Hugh Jackman and more.
In a bold casting choice that brilliantly challenges traditional theatrical conventions, Tony Award-winner Cynthia Erivo is set to transform from Wicked's emerald-skinned outcast to divinity incarnate — taking on the role of Jesus Christ in the Hollywood Bowl's 2025 production of "Jesus Christ Superstar."
The announcement, made Tuesday by the Los Angeles Philharmonic, marks a watershed moment for the iconic Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice rock opera. Erivo — whose previous connection to the musical includes her stirring portrayal of Mary Magdalene in the 2020 concept album "Jesus Christ Superstar: She Is Risen" — will now step into the titular role for three groundbreaking performances from August 1-3.
The production, helmed by Tony Award-winning director and choreographer Sergio Trujillo, represents more than just innovative casting — it signals the triumphant return of summer musicals to the Bowl following an extended COVID-induced hiatus. As L.A. Phil President and Chief Executive Kim Noltemy reflected, "We missed the musicals for a few years, and I think that one is a good one to return with."
The choice of Erivo — fresh from her Oscar-nominated turn as Elphaba in "Wicked" — speaks to both her extraordinary range and the production's willingness to reimagine biblical narratives for contemporary audiences. The rock opera, which explores the complex relationships between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, and the forces that led to the crucifixion, will showcase Webber's electrifying score, including beloved numbers like "Superstar" and "I Don't Know How to Love Him."
But "Jesus Christ Superstar" is just one jewel in the Bowl's crown for 2025. The season will open with Hugh Jackman performing selections from "The Greatest Showman" and "The Music Man," accompanied by the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and Young Orchestra Los Angeles. The star-studded lineup continues with performances by John Legend, Cyndi Lauper, Josh Groban, and Diana Ross — among others.
The season holds particular significance as it marks Gustavo Dudamel's penultimate summer at the Bowl before his departure to the New York Philharmonic in 2026. "Everyone wants to support Gustavo," Noltemy noted. "He's so beloved. And being part of his last years here, I think, moves a lot of the artists."
Dudamel's farewell season includes eight August performances with both the L.A. Phil and Venezuela's Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra — including a poignant return to Mahler's First Symphony, which he conducted during his 2009 debut as music director. The programming thoughtfully weaves together past and future, much like Erivo's groundbreaking casting does for "Jesus Christ Superstar."
The Bowl's 2025 season also introduces the inaugural Blue Note Jazz Festival — replacing the traditional Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival — featuring headliners Grace Jones, Willow, and De La Soul, further cementing the venue's commitment to musical innovation and cultural evolution.
As the Hollywood Bowl emerges from the shadows of the pandemic, this season — with its bold casting choices, diverse programming, and celebration of artistic excellence — suggests not just a return to form, but a leap into the future of live performance. In Erivo's hands, the role of Jesus promises to be not just a performance, but a revelation.