The Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production of Jesus Christ Superstar, directed by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, has commenced its Australian national tour at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre. This revival of the acclaimed rock musical, first staged in Australia at this same venue in 1972, will begin an extensive national tour, also spanning Perth’s Crown Theatre, Melbourne’s Princess Theatre and Brisbane’s Lyric Theatre as of writing
Leading the Sydney cast is international recording artist Michael Paynter, who will play the role of Jesus. Known for his work with the iconic Australian band Icehouse, Paynter also performs as a guitarist and vocalist with Jimmy Barnes’ band and collaborates with acts like Delta Goodrem and Bachelor Girl. The role of Judas will be portrayed by Javon King, who recently starred as Seaweed in the Australian tour of Hairspray.
Taking on the role of Mary is soul and blues vocalist Mahalia Barnes, whilst comedian, singer and writer Reuben Kaye takes on the role of Herod. Also joining the principal cast are Peter Murphy as Pilate, Elliot Baker as Caiaphas, and John O’Hara as Annas. The ensemble for this production includes a talented array of Australian performers: 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 expressed his enthusiasm about bringing Jesus Christ Superstar back to Australia, especially to Sydney’s Capitol Theatre where it first premiered, sharing:
I am delighted to be bringing Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR back to Australia, playing in its original home at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre. Australia has a deep love for SUPERSTAR, from the original concept album which was played in every household, to the original production starring Trevor White and Jon English, through to the sold out-arena performances starring John Farnham, Jon Stevens and Kate Ceberano in the 1990s.
We have an extraordinary powerhouse cast to bring to life this fresh and bold new version, led by Michael, Javon and Mahalia. They have almost blown the roof off the theatre during our dress rehearsals, and I can’t wait for Sydney audiences to experience the show at the first performance tonight. It will thrill longtime fans of SUPERSTAR and delight those seeing it for the very first time. Get your tickets now before it sells out!
Citing a high demand for tickets, an additional week of performances in Sydney have now entered pre-sale, and will commence general public sales on 15 November 2024. For booking information for all currently confirmed states, visit the official Jesus Christ Superstar Australian tour website.
