Last Two Weeks of Jesus Christ Superstar in Sydney

What’s the buzz? Standing ovations, rave reviews and stars all round have greeted the return to Australia of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s celebrated rock musical Jesus Christ Superstar. The award-winning Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production of this audience favourite has only two weeks left at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre where it first opened in 1972, before it heads interstate.

Jesus Christ Superstar plays in Sydney until 26 January, when it transfers to Perth’s Crown Theatre from 13 February, then the Princess Theatre, Melbourne from 16 March, and the Lyric Theatre, Brisbane from 29 June. Here is what critics have to say about this unmissable production:

“The show vibrates with ferocious, pulsating energy, driven by a thrilling arrangement and great rock voices.” – The Australian 

In the title role of Jesus is international recording artist Michael Paynter. A member of classic Australian band Icehouse, as well as the guitarist and vocalist in Australian icon Jimmy Barnes’ band, Michael performs live with Bachelor Girl, Killing Heidi, Delta Goodrem, Reece Mastin and many others. 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 is taking on her first stage role as Mary.

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. In the role of Pilate is Peter Murphy who has performed in major shows and live concerts throughout Australia and the world for over 20 years. Caiaphas is played by Elliot Baker, most recently seen as Don Attilio in The Phantom of the Opera at the Sydney Opera House and Arts Centre Melbourne, while Annas is John O’Hara, who portrayed Phil Spector in the Australian tour of Tina The Tina Turner Musical.

Producer John Frost, on behalf of his co-producers, said: “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 and Mahalia is receiving a standing ovation every performance after almost blowing the roof off the Capitol Theatre. Sydney, get your tickets now before we leave on 26 January”.

Jesus Christ Superstar is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes “I Don’t Know How to Love Him”, “Gethsemane” and “Superstar”.

This production of Jesus Christ Superstar won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival and the 2016 Evening Standard Award for Best Musical, selling out two consecutive engagements in 2016 and 2017. The production played a West End engagement at the Barbican in 2019 before returning to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in concert version during the summer of 2020.

Produced by John Frost and David Ian for Crossroads Live and Work Light Productions, Jesus Christ Superstar features lyrics and music by Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony winners Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. This production was reimagined by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre where it originated and is helmed by director Timothy Sheader and choreographer Drew McOnie.

Visit www.jesuschristsuperstarmusical.com.au for tour details, and to book now.

Michael Paynter and Ensemble in JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (c) Jeff Busby