The musical Jesus Christ Superstar is an iconic global phenomenon, having wowed theatregoers for decades.
The rock opera dramatises the final weeks of Jesus Christ’s life through the perspective of Judas. The show received a slight revamp with the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production, which went on to win an Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival and tour the US and UK.
This new staging has now opened in Sydney and we were delighted to be invited along to opening night to experience the show. For me (Joel) I remember being mesmerized by the legendary arena version in the 90s, where for Sean this was his first time seeing the show.
The reinvention holds tight to everything audiences loved about the show – all of the legendary Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber songs – I Don’t Know How To Love Him, Everything’s Alright, Superstar… but fuses edgy new sets, costumes and choreography which brings the show into a new millennium.
In the title role of Jesus is recording artist Michael Paynter. Michael is a member of classic Australian band Icehouse, as well as the guitarist and vocalist in Australian icon Jimmy Barnes’ band, and performs live with Bachelor Girl, Killing Heidi, Delta Goodrem and many others. In his first musical role, Paynter brings a vocal performance that virtually lifted the roof off the theatre.
Javon King, who astounded audiences last year for his role as Seaweed in the Australian tour of Hairspray, plays Judas.
Powerhouse soul and blues vocalist Mahalia Barnes takes on her first stage role as Mary. Mahalia and her band The Soul Mates play to capacity crowds around the country, touring nationally and internationally alongside artists such as Bruce Springsteen, The Roots, Mavis Staples, Joe Bonamassa, Bryan Adams and Tom Jones.
Together, the three bring astounding range and skill with vocal performances of a stature rarely heard in a musical theatre setting. Literally goosebumps every time their voices soared.
Internationally acclaimed comedian, singer and writer Reuben Kaye is Herod. Hailing from Melbourne, Reuben has captivated global audiences with his electrifying performances and unapologetically bold persona.
Following its Sydney run, the production will transfer to Perth’s Crown Theatre, then the Princess Theatre, Melbourne and the Lyric Theatre, Brisbane.
Australia has a deep love and a long history with this show, with this latest production playing in its original 1972 home at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre. 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.
This new staging will thrill longtime fans of Superstar and delight those seeing it for the very first time.
Jesus Christ Superstar is a truly unforgettable musical. For tour info and tickets, visit www.jesuschristsuperstarmusical.com.au
