Australian producers John Frost and David Ian for Crossroads Live Australia and Work Light Productions has announced that the soon-to-commence Australian tour of the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production of Jesus Christ Superstar, will be headed to Brisbane in June 2025. The production will be staged at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC, following its runs in Sydney, Perth, and Melbourne. Tickets will be available for pre-sale from 9 December, with general public sales beginning on 13 December. Keen on nabbing yourself access to the early pre-sales? Sign up for the wait list on the musical’s official website.
Leading the cast in this rock opera are Michael Paynter as Jesus, Javon King as Judas, and Mahalia Barnes as Mary. Paynter, a member of the Australian band Icehouse, has performed alongside artists such as John Farnham and Jimmy Barnes. King’s theatre credits include The Inheritance and a Green Room Award-winning performance in Guys and Dolls. Barnes is a renowned soul and blues vocalist, having toured with international stars such as Bruce Springsteen and Joe Bonamassa.
Comedian and performer Reuben Kaye will take on the role of Herod, Caiaphas will be played by Elliot Baker, and John O’Hara will portray Annas. The ensemble and swings includes a talented group of artists, consisting of: 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.
Producer John Frost, on behalf of Crossroads Live, commented on the upcoming Brisbane season, sharing:
I am delighted to bring Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s much loved rock opera JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR to Brisbane. 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.
2025 is turning out to be quite the busy year for Crossroads Live in Australia, with their other musicals – with Grease the Musical, Sister Act and Jesus Christ Superstar all set to grace the Lyric Theatre stage in the first half of the year.
