Top 2025 Theaters: ‘Jesus Christ Superstar,’ ‘Paranormal Activity’ Shine
2025 was a notable year for theater, showcasing significant productions that resonated with audiences. Among these, highlights included revivals and original works that captivated both critics and theatergoers alike. Here’s a look at the standout performances and productions from the year.
Top Productions of 2025
1. Jesus Christ Superstar
The Hollywood Bowl hosted a remarkable revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s iconic musical Jesus Christ Superstar. Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Jesus electrified audiences, complemented by Adam Lambert’s intense performance as Judas. The production captured the summer spotlight, generating extensive social media buzz.
2. Jaja’s African Hair Braiding
At the Mark Taper Forum, Jocelyn Bioh’s Jaja’s African Hair Braiding resonated with its vibrant storytelling. The comedy provided a glimpse into the lives of African immigrant women working in a Harlem salon, exploring themes of courage and vulnerability.
3. The Night of the Iguana
Boston Court Pasadena presented Jessica Kubzansky’s revival of Tennessee Williams’ The Night of the Iguana. This production shined a light on the spiritual struggles of its characters, supported by powerful performances that elevated the play’s emotional depth.
4. Furlough’s Paradise
Furlough’s Paradise, written by a.k. payne, unfolded at the Geffen Playhouse. This engaging drama tackled identity themes through the relationship between two queer Black cousins, exploring their divergent paths and shared history.
5. Paranormal Activity
At the Ahmanson Theatre, Levi Holloway’s Paranormal Activity expertly blended horror with relatable characters, delivering a terrifyingly plausible experience that captivated its audience.
6. Life of Pi
This production at the Ahmanson Theatre transformed Yann Martel’s novel into a visually stunning stage adaptation. The use of puppetry and imaginative storytelling captivated viewers while showcasing the perils of survival.
7. Fiddler on the Roof
The National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene’s revival of Fiddler on the Roof at The Soraya brought a fresh perspective to the classic tale through the power of the Yiddish language, deeply resonating with contemporary audiences.
8. & Juliet
& Juliet, featured at the Ahmanson Theatre, reimagined the story of Shakespeare’s Juliet, offering an exhilarating musical experience filled with pop hits from Max Martin, transforming tragedy into a celebration of life.
9. A Man of No Importance
A Noise Within presented A Man of No Importance, a lesser-known musical that captured the heart of its audience through poignant storytelling about a closeted bus driver with dreams of the stage.
10. Bacon
The Rogue Machine Theatre showcased Bacon, a gritty exploration of teenage sexuality and relationships that left a lasting impact with its raw emotional performance.
Conclusion
2025’s theater scene was vibrant, with productions like Jesus Christ Superstar and Jaja’s African Hair Braiding leading the charge. The mix of revivals and fresh works highlighted the creativity and resilience within the theater community. As audiences continue to seek out diverse stories, these productions set a promising foundation for future performances.
