Cynthia Erivo will break new ground by stepping into the role of Jesus Christ in Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl in August.
The Tony Award-winning performer, who identifies as queer and bisexual, shared the news with fans through an Instagram story.
“Just a little busy this summer, can’t wait,” said Erivo.
Erivo, known for playing Elphaba in the Wicked film, once played Mary Magdalene in an all-female production of the same Andrew Lloyd Webber musical.
The announcement triggered mixed responses online.
Some social media users criticized the casting, saying, “Um, Jesus was a dude,” while others praised Erivo’s trailblazing performance as “a bold step that changes the dynamics of the character.”
One commenter even called her “Black Lesbian Jesus Christ,” sparking further debate.
Erivo has embraced her unique position in the performing arts, saying her identity as a “Black woman who is queer” informs her work.
The production runs August 1 to August 3.
