Two new principal cast members for the Australian leg of Jesus Christ Superstar have been announced today, and the Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd-Webber rock musical has just gotten even bigger.
Joining the cast are comedian, singer, and writer Reuben Kaye as Herod and performer Peter Murphy as Pilate (the latter appearing in Sydney and Perth).
Kaye, an unapologetically bold performer, has hosted the standout shows The Butch Is Back, Live And Intimidating and EnGORGEd with an 18-piece orchestra. All those shows have received critical acclaim and helped solidify Kaye’s status as a major name in comedy and cabaret.
Meanwhile, Murphy has performed in numerous big shows and live concerts, including starring as Galileo in We Will Rock You (London and Japan), Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar (Scandinavian tour), Nick Piazza in Fame, featured vocalist in Thriller – Live and Burn The Floor, as well as the Australian tours of Les Misérables, Rent and Shout!.
The newly announced cast members join Michael Paynter (Sydney and Melbourne) and Robert Tripolino (Perth) as Jesus, Javon King as Judas and Mahalia Barnes as Mary.
Michael Paynter, Mahalia Barnes, Javon King Lead New ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ Australian Run
Other big names, such as Caiaphas, will be played by Elliot Baker, and John O’Hara will play Annas. Additional artists include 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.
In a statement, producer John Frost, on behalf of his co-producers, said: “I am thrilled to be bringing this award-winning production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s much loved musical JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR to Australia with this extraordinary cast.
“Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre has created a fresh and bold new version of a beloved classic which will enthral both longtime fans of the show and delight those seeing it for the very first time.
“Australia has a deep affection for JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, and the ticket sales and interest in this new production are proving that. I can’t wait for rehearsals to begin next week to see this powerhouse cast bring new life to the songs we know and love.”
The forthcoming season of Jesus Christ Superstar in Australia begins in Sydney in November before it heads to Perth in February and Melbourne in March. More details about each season are below; you can purchase tickets here.
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR
2024-2025 AUSTRALIAN SEASON
SYDNEY SEASON
Venue: Capitol Theatre, Sydney
Season: From 6 November
Performance Times: Tue-Thurs 7 pm, Fri- Sat 7.30 pm, Matinees Wed 1 pm, Sat 2 pm, Sun 1 pm & 6 pm (performance times vary each week)
Prices: From $69.90 (Transaction fees apply)
PERTH SEASON
Venue: Crown Theatre
Season: From 13 February
Performance Times: Tue-Sat 7.30 pm, Matinees Wed 1 pm, Sat 2 pm, Sun 1 pm & 6 pm (performance times vary each week)
Prices: From $69.90 (Transaction fees apply)
MELBOURNE SEASON
Venue: Princess Theatre
Season: From 16 March
Performance Times: Tue-Thurs 7 pm, Fri- Sat 7.30 pm, Matinees Wed 1 pm, Sat 2 pm, Sun 1 pm & 6 pm (performance times vary each week)
Prices: From $69.90 (Transaction fees apply)
