The acclaimed rock musical Jesus Christ Superstar, featuring music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, is set to open at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre this Sunday, 16 March. Following its previous runs in Sydney and Perth, the production will continue in Melbourne until 22 June, with a gala opening night scheduled for 20 March. The production will then travel to Brisbane for, as of writing, the final confirmed leg of this tour.
The Melbourne production stars Michael Paynter as Jesus, an international recording artist and member of Icehouse. Javon King, known for his role as Seaweed in Hairspray, plays Judas, while powerhouse blues and soul vocalist Mahalia Barnes makes her stage debut as Mary. Reuben Kaye, a well-known comedian and singer, takes on the role of Herod, and Peter Murphy, whose extensive career includes We Will Rock You and Les Misérables, plays Pilate. The cast also includes Elliot Baker as Caiaphas and John O’Hara as Annas, alongside a large ensemble.
John Frost, producer for Crossroads Live, highlighted the show’s broad appeal, stating:
This award-winning production, led by Michael, Javon, Mahalia, Reuben and Peter, is a 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, as the demand for Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s much-loved rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar has been overwhelming.
Set against the final weeks of Jesus Christ’s life from the perspective of Judas, Jesus Christ Superstar is known for its rock-inspired score, featuring classic songs such as I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Gethsemane, and Superstar. Originally released as a concept album in the 1970s, the musical has since enjoyed global success, including a record-breaking West End run and numerous revivals.
For more information on ticketing for the Melbourne and Brisbane seasons of Jesus Christ Superstar, visit the musical’s official website.
