Jesus Christ Superstar landed in Melbourne for its 50th-anniversary tour on Thursday, bringing Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s legendary rock opera to the Princess Theatre.
This fresh, high-energy production leans into its concert-style roots, with powerful vocals, visuals and choreography to create an electrifying atmosphere from the opening curtain.
JSC launches straight into song – no dialogue, no exposition is required. Javon King takes centre stage as Judas, delivering a gripping performance that captures his inner turmoil and ultimate betrayal.
Michael Paynter’s portrayal of Jesus builds in intensity, peaking with a raw and emotional rendition of “Gethsemane.” Mahalia Barnes brings warmth and soul as Mary Magdalene, particularly in her heartfelt performance of “I Don’t Know How to Love Him.”
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One of the standout moments of the night is Reuben Kaye’s gloriously camp take on King Herod. Dripping in sequins and sass, Kaye commands the stage with a theatrical flair that’s impossible to ignore.
It’s hard to put a new twist on a classic – but Kaye delivers in spades, turning “King Herod’s Song” into a show-stealing moment, and providing contrast for the audience at the beginning of the final act: Jesus’ trails, crucifixion and resurrection.
The ensemble’s sharp choreography and the rock-inspired staging add an extra layer of energy, making every scene feel alive and urgent.
The production’s stripped-back set lets the lighting and onstage band do the heavy lifting. The concert-like staging blur the lines between theatre and live music, adding to the show’s raw, immersive feel.
Jesus Christ Superstar delivers a bold and electrifying retelling of the timeless story.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the show, this production is thoroughly entertaining, and will offer you a performance which is fresh, intense and engrossing.
