<P> The original 1970 concept album was very popular; its 1971 release topped the US Billboard Pop Albums . The 1972 and 1992 Australian cast recordings were also both highly successful . </P> <P> In 1994, a studio recording under the name of Jesus Christ Superstar: A Resurrection was released . </P> <P> A 1996 radio production for BBC Radio 2 starred Tony Hadley as Jesus, Roger Daltrey as Judas, Frances Ruffelle as Mary Magdalene and Julian Clary as King Herod; this production was re-broadcast on BBC Radio 4 Extra on 6 August 2016 . </P> <P> A film adaptation of Jesus Christ Superstar was released in 1973 and was the eighth highest - grossing film of that year . The film, directed by Norman Jewison, was shot in Israel and other Middle Eastern locations . Ted Neeley, Carl Anderson and Yvonne Elliman were each nominated for a Golden Globe Award for their portrayals of Jesus, Judas and Mary Magdalene, respectively . Bob Bingham (Caiaphas) and Barry Dennen (Pilate) also reprised their roles . Though it attracted criticism from some religious groups, the film was generally well received . A new song, called "Then We Are Decided" and phrased as a dialogue between Caiaphas and Annas, was written and composed for this adaptation . </P>

What is the production jesus christ superstar about