Holy moly! The celebrated rock musical, Jesus Christ Superstar, is coming to Melbourne. This award-winning production by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber is set against some extraordinary events in the final weeks of the life of Jesus Christ, seen through the eyes of Judas. This exciting rock opera will play in Sydney’s Capitol Theatre from November, ahead of a national tour.
Jesus Christ Superstar
The 1970s score was first released as a concept album, and the show opened on Broadway in 1971. The original production in London ran for over eight years, making it the longest-running musical on the West End at the time. When it first came to Australia in 1972, it played for over 700 performances in Sydney, Melbourne and other cities. Over the years, this musical has been made into a film and has had revivals on Broadway and the West End. There was also an Australian arena tour featuring John Farnham, Jon Stevens, Kate Ceberano and more in 1992.
International recording artist, Michael Paynter, will star in the role of Jesus. Michael is a member of the band, Icehouse, as well as the guitarist and vocalist in Jimmy Barnes’ band.
Meanwhile, Javon King will play Judas. Javon recently starred in Hairspray, and has also toured international as Angel in the 20th and 25th anniversary tours of Rent.
Finally, soul and blues vocalist Mahalia Barnes will play Mary in her first role on stage. Mahalia, along with her band The Soul Mates, has played to crowds around the country, and toured with artists like Bruce Springsteen and The Roots.
This Australian production is produced by John Frost and David Ian for Crossroads Live, in association with Work Light Productions. This show was reimagined by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Directed by Timothy Sheader, Jesus Christ Superstar features lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber. You can get your tickets here.