Hallelujah, Brisbane — Jesus Christ Superstar is almost here. The acclaimed rock musical by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber opens at QPAC’s Lyric Theatre on 29 June, with performances running through to 10 August. Final tickets are now on sale, and if past cities are anything to go by, they won’t be available for long.
This production, direct from London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, brings a bold new energy to the classic rock opera. It’s already toured Sydney, Perth and Melbourne to full houses, and now Brisbane audiences have the chance to experience the powerful music and storytelling that has kept this show in the cultural conversation for over 50 years.
Set in the final weeks of Jesus’ life, told through the eyes of Judas, Jesus Christ Superstar blends biblical themes with a legendary 1970s rock score. Songs like I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Gethsemane and Superstar anchor a production that continues to resonate across generations.
Inside the Superstar-studded cast
In the title role is international recording artist Michael Paynter. Known for his work with Australian bands like Icehouse and for sharing stages with Jimmy Barnes, Killing Heidi and Delta Goodrem, Paynter brings a rock pedigree to the role of Jesus.
Javon King stars as Judas, following his breakout performance as Seaweed in the Australian tour of Hairspray. Taking on the role of Mary is soul and blues vocalist Mahalia Barnes, making her stage debut after years of touring with her band The Soul Mates and alongside artists such as Bruce Springsteen, The Roots and Mavis Staples.
The role of Herod will be played by comedian, singer and writer Reuben Kaye, known for his sharp stage presence and theatrical flair. Brisbane’s own Peter Murphy appears as Pilate, while Elliot Baker (most recently seen in Phantom of the Opera) plays Caiaphas.
The cast also features several Queenslanders in the ensemble, including Bree Tipoki, Ethan Jones, Nic Van Lits and Graeme Isaako. Rounding out the company are a group of talented performers and swings from across the country.
So what’s the buzz?
This isn’t the first time Jesus Christ Superstar has captured attention — the original concept album was released in 1970, and the show opened on Broadway the following year. The Australian premiere came soon after, playing over 700 performances across major cities in the 1970s. Since then, the musical has become a global mainstay, with this current version earning accolades overseas, including the Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival.
The production is directed by Timothy Sheader, with choreography by Drew McOnie. It features set and costume design by Tom Scutt, lighting by Lee Curran, sound design by Nick Lidster and musical supervision by Tom Deering.
Produced by John Frost and David Ian for Crossroads Live and Work Light Productions, this staging is part of a continued international tour.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the musical or seeing it for the first time, this Brisbane season brings a cast of contemporary voices and a creative team committed to delivering an experience that’s both powerful and theatrical.
WHAT: Jesus Christ Superstar
WHERE: Lyric Theatre, QPAC
WHEN: 29 June – 10 August, Tue–Thurs 7pm, Fri–Sat 7.30pm. Matinees: Wed 1pm, Sat 2pm, Sun 1pm & 6pm (varies)
TICKETS: from $69.90 + fees, book at jesuschristsuperstarmusical.com.au or call 136 246
In her spare time, she likes long walks down the makeup aisle and performing in Brisbane theatre. You can follow her adventures on Instagram and TikTok @thebeautypalate.
