Reviewed by Chezré van Rensburg.
From the stage to your home, Ruth the Musical transforms its moving performances into a digital album, letting fans relive the music whenever they want.
The album opens with “Testify Introduction,” a stirring blend of melodies that sets a hopeful tone as the story of Ruth and Chloe begins.
“But a Moment” brings Naomi, Orpah, and Ruth together in a heartfelt reflection on loss. They remember the precious time shared with their husbands and vow never to forget those moments. Their harmonies capture the bond they share and their resilience after grief, reminding us to cherish loved ones and every moment we have with them.
”I Will Follow” highlights Ruth’s devotion to Naomi. Ruth pledges to stay by her side, adopt her people, and worship her God. The song reveals their deep bond, showing Ruth’s loyalty despite not being related by blood, as she commits to journeying with Naomi back to Bethlehem.
“Moving” captures their long walk to Bethlehem through energetic instrumentals and layered vocals that bring the journey to life.
“No More Tears” showcases Charlotte Benjamin’s soaring soprano as Naomi. Supported by a rising chorus, she sings of her pain and insists on being called “Mara,” which means bitter. The song builds into a powerful ballad about turning to God for healing and restoration, acknowledging how He takes away our pain and tears.
“Step by Step” affirms God’s guidance into hope, peace, and joy. Melissa Lee Kruger’s raw and heartfelt performance as Ruth stirs hope with every note, blending seamlessly with uplifting instrumentation. She sings how God is leading her into victory and is always on her side.
“Is There Something There?” offers a playful duet between Ruth and Boaz, performed by Melissa Lee Kruger and David Konrad Nilson. With lighthearted interjections from the cast, the piece explores the spark between them and wonders whether it could grow into lasting love.
“Enter Into My Rest,” performed by Elsje Lourens as Chloe and Joshua van Niekerk as Liam, is a tender moment of worship. Chloe pleads for peace as she cries out about her pain and feeling lonely. Liam responds with God’s promise of rest while reading out of the Bible. The duet testifies to God’s open invitation to find comfort in Him.
“No Weapon” entertains the listener with dramatic instrumentals reminiscent of an intense scene in a thriller film.
Melissa Kruger’s Ruth is facing attacks after falling out of the protection of Boaz, and the men’s negative voices are telling her she isn’t good enough for Boaz and that she will fail as her God can’t help her. A powerful chorus of contrasting voices comes in, and Boaz comes to the rescue. The song changes its tune to one of triumph and inspiration. They sing that she belongs to God and no weapon against her will succeed, as God will always fight for her.
“No Weapon Reprise” offers a calmer reflection, with harmonious melodies that signal peace after the storm.
“Let Me Praise” brings in the Laerskool Bakenkop Junior Koor (Junior Choir) from Centurion, Gauteng. These brilliant students are only in Grades 1-3, but they bring a vibrant, spirited energy to the song that reminds us of the immense love Jesus has for His little children who are full of love and joy for Him. The choir is accompanied by Arno Meyer, who plays Jonathan, as well as the rest of the cast singing together. It’s an uplifting worship song expressing thanks for the glory and marvel of God, and how He brings harvest, abundant food, and provisions for His people.
“Ruthful” explores the hope and promises in God’s plans, and Elsje Lourens brilliantly captivates this hope in her singing. It paints the picture of how, even though the world and our enemies remain ruthless in their attempts to drag us down and hurt us, we can remain “ruthful” and treat others and ourselves with love, kindness, and patience. Chloe discovers that, despite her grief and spiritual sadness, God is still guiding her towards goodness and healing.
“Boaz Transaction” narrates Boaz’s efforts to redeem Ruth. Through determined vocals, David Konrad Nilson shows Boaz’s dedication as he bargains with the relative and elders to secure her and Naomi’s future.
“Ruth and Boaz Love Song” is a tender ballad performed by Ruth, Boaz, Chloe, and Liam. Romantic instrumentals underscore their gratitude and devotion, creating a love song that radiates warmth and redemption.
“Genealogy” perks up the audience with an energetic breakdown of the genealogy of Jesus. It’s a fun song that appeals to the younger audience members as it blends elements of pop and hip-hop. Listeners are taken through the epic history of the Bible, from Adam to Abraham, all the way down to Mary, Joseph, and Jesus.
“Testify” expands on the introduction, with singers proclaiming God’s restoration, healing, provision, and love in full.
“I Worship You” draws listeners into an earnest time of worship, singing praises to God’s faithfulness and care, and how He has led us and provided for us. It’s a beautiful song that would bring joy to God’s heart.
The album closes with “Ruth Megamix,” a spirited mashup of the show’s most beloved songs, leaving audiences with one last burst of joy and energy.
Polyda van Niekerk has poured her heart and soul into this production, blending biblical stories with worship in music that is both heartfelt and accessible. Each singer performs with passion, making the album as captivating as the live show. Even listeners unfamiliar with the stage production can imagine the drama unfolding through the music.
Ruth the Musical is a soul-stirring performance that I highly recommend for audiences of all ages. It is a heartfelt story of love, faith, and hope that will leave you uplifted.
The production runs at the Afriforum Teater in Pretoria from 12–21 September 2025. Tickets cost R285–R350 for adults, with reserved seating, and R205 for children and pensioners.
Get your tickets here: https://tickets.tixsa.co.za/