Designer Paul Tazewell Blends the Bible With Elton John & Rihanna to Create the Costumes of Jesus Christ Superstar

In creating the wardrobe of Jesus Christ Superstar, costume designer Paul Tazewell traveled across the millennia to draw from a variety of unlikely sources. The drapery of biblical times is apparent in the show’s silhouettes, but Tazewell and director Des McAnuff added plenty of anachronistic touches to keep the show feeling modern. Middle Eastern looks are blended with influences from today’s high fashion. For the over-the-top look of King Herod, Tazewell turned to Elton John. For some of the prostitutes in the Temple, he borrowed from pop star Rihanna’s onstage lookbook. Lady Gaga and Madonna are also named among the inspirations that keep Jesus Christ Superstar fashion forward. Click on below to take a walk through Jesus' costumes with Tazewell as he sheds some light on his Superstar looks.