There appear to be quite a few productions in transit in a few weeks time. Much like Annie the Musical will be making its way from Sydney’s Capitol Theatre to the Melbourne Princess Theatre in four weeks time, the musical currently occupying the venue, Jesus Christ Superstar, will be headed up to the QPAC Lyric Theatre in Brisbane at the same time – with its final performance to take place on 22 June 2025.
The production stars international recording artist Michael Paynter as Jesus. Paynter is known as a member of the band Icehouse and as a guitarist and vocalist with Jimmy Barnes. Javon King takes on the role of Judas, following his recent performance as Seaweed in the Australian tour of Hairspray. Making her stage debut as Mary is Mahalia Barnes, recognised for her career as a soul and blues vocalist. Reuben Kaye portrays Herod, while Peter Murphy appears as Pilate. Other principal cast members include Elliot Baker as Caiaphas and John O’Hara as Annas.
Producer John Frost of Crossroads Live commented on the Melbourne season’s success:
I am thrilled at the overwhelming audience and critical praise in Melbourne of this bold new production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ Superstar. Our powerhouse cast led by Michael, Javon, Mahalia, Reuben and Peter are receiving a standing ovation every performance. Melbourne, get your tickets now before it sells out as we must leave on 22 June!
Tickets for the Melbourne, Brisbane and subsequent legs of Jesus Christ Superstar’s Australian tour can be purchased via the musical’s official Australian website.
