Rock musical Jesus Christ Superstar is set to arrive at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre’s (QPAC) Lyric Theatre later this month, with final tickets for all Brisbane performances now available. The production is confirmed to be running from 29 June until 10 August 2025 inclusive, with ticketing information for the season, and all other states (should they be announced – Brisbane is currently the final leg of the production’s national tour), available via the official Australian website.
This production features several Queenslanders in the cast, including Brisbane’s Peter Murphy in the role of Pilate. Gold Coast performer Elliot Baker takes on the role of Caiaphas, following his recent appearance in The Phantom of the Opera. Also joining the ensemble are Graeme Isaako, Ethan Jones, and Nic van Lits from the Gold Coast, alongside Brisbane’s Bree Tipoki.
Leading the cast as Jesus is Michael Paynter, a member of the band Icehouse and a regular collaborator with prominent Australian artists including Jimmy Barnes and Delta Goodrem. Taking on the role of Judas is Javon King, while Mahalia Barnes, known for her career as a soul and blues vocalist, makes her stage debut as Mary. Melbourne-born comedian, singer and writer Reuben Kaye brings his dynamic stage presence to the role of Herod. John O’Hara, who played Phil Spector in the Australian tour of Tina – The Tina Turner Musical, appears as Annas. They are all, of course, joined by an ensemble cast of Australian performers.
Producer John Frost commented on the reception the show has received to date:
I am delighted at the overwhelming audience and critical praise 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. Brisbane, get your tickets now before it sells out!
