A Brisbane season has been announced as part of the Australian tour of the award-winning Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s celebrated rock musical JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR. The production will play at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC from June 2025, following seasons in Sydney, Perth and Melbourne.
Leading the cast in this classic rock opera are international recording artist Michael Paynter as Jesus, Javon King, who astounded audiences last year for his role as Seaweed J. Stubbs in the Australian tour of Hairspray, as Judas, and powerhouse soul and blues vocalist Mahalia Barnes as Mary. Internationally acclaimed comedian, singer and writer Reuben Kaye will play Herod. Caiaphas will be played by Elliot Baker, while Annas will be played by John O’Hara.
The talented group of artists who comprise the ensemble and swings are Joshua Dormor, Darcey Eagle, Josh Gates, Samuel Harmon, Melanie Hawkins, Marie Ikonomou, Graeme Isaako, Ethan Jones, Tana Laga’aia, Bella Massey, Danielle Matthews, Calista Nelmes, Adam Noviello, Stellar Perry, Nathan Pinnell, Daniel Raso, Clay Roberts, Josh Spiniello, Bree Tipoki and Liam Wigney.
“I am delighted to bring Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s much loved rock opera JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR to Brisbane,” said Producer John Frost for Crossroads Live, on behalf of his co-producers. We’ve received an overwhelming response to the news that the much-loved show is returning to Australia, and rehearsals are going brilliantly.
“This award-winning production, led by Michael, Javon and Mahalia, will be a very special experience for people who remember the cherished concept album or past Australian productions, or audiences new to the show. Get your tickets now while you still can.”
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Gethsemane and Superstar.
Produced by John Frost and David Ian for Crossroads Live and Work Light Productions, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR features lyrics and music by Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony winners Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber.
This production was reimagined by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre where it originated and is helmed by director Timothy Sheader and choreographer Drew McOnie. Completing the creative team is design by Tom Scutt, lighting design by Lee Curran, sound design by Nick Lidster and music supervision by Tom Deering.
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR will play Sydney’s Capitol Theatre from 6 November 2024, before playing the Crown Theatre Perth from 13 February, Melbourne’s Princess Theatre from 16 March and Brisbane’s Lyric Theatre – QPAC from June 2025. For more information, visit: www.jesuschristsuperstarmusical.com.au for details.
Image: Javon King, Michael Paynter and Mahalia Barnes – photo by Juliet Taylor