The addition of a third Perth show on Sunday 2 June and a third Brisbane show on Tuesday 18 June brings the Australian run to a whopping 18 performances across May and June this year.

Lucky ticketholders will have the pleasure of witnessing not only a phenomenal production but an incredible cast including Australia’s own Tim Minchin as ‘Judas Iscariot’, former Spice Girl Melanie C as ‘Mary Magdalene’ and the critically acclaimed newcomer Ben Forster in the role of ‘Jesus’.

Adding a further Australian flavour to the cast will be Jon Stevens as ‘Pontius Pilate’ and Andrew O’Keefe in the role of King Herod.

Jesus Christ Superstar’s UK run of shows has received critical acclaim, including both Tim Minchin and Melanie C receiving Whatsonstage.com Awards for Best Supporting Actor and Actress in a Musical respectively, testament to their stellar performances.

As the tour draws closer, anticipation for Jesus Christ Superstar is reaching its highest levels yet. Be quick to snap up tickets to these freshly announced shows when they go on sale on Tuesday 7 May.

Frontier Members pre-sale via www.frontiertouring.com/jesuschristsuperstar
» 12noon AEST Tue 30 Apr to 12noon AEST, Wednesday 1 May
» General public on sale from 9am local time, Tuesday 7 May

Find out more on the Really Useful Group’s official website »

Easter has come around once again and as always there is some spectacular TV lined up for you!

Our pick of the bunch has to be ITV’s Easter Special “Andrew Lloyd Webber: 40 Musical Years”, which celebrates an unbroken run of 40 years of shows in the West End.

Stars including Nicole Scherzinger, Kimberley Walsh, Melanie C, Myleene Klass, Il Divo, Tim Minchin and Samantha Barks, will perform special versions of some of Andrew’s greatest hits, including songs from Cats, The Phantom of the Opera, Evita, Jesus Christ Superstar and Tell Me On A Sunday.

Andrew says: “I was flattered when ITV approached me about a 90-minute special, but I said I would only do it if it wasn’t some po-faced tribute to a bloke who’s about to collect his bus pass. I also said it must include the wet sari number from Bombay Dreams! I still don’t know what I’m letting myself in for, especially as Simon Cowell has filmed an interview for the show.”

The special will also feature an eagerly-anticipated world first performance of a track from Andrew’s forthcoming musical, Stephen Ward, by classical guitarist Miloš. This will be an exclusive opportunity for fans to hear new music from Andrew and learn more about his next West End production.

Throughout the show, Andrew will share anecdotes and discuss the evolution and influences behind his biggest music masterpieces – just how did he turn biblical figures, domestic pets and roller-skating trains into global entertainment spectacles? And where did Andrew develop his instinct for spotting star talent?

Cameras will go behind the scenes to provide a glimpse into Andrew’s working life, while speaking to some of his closest friends and colleagues, including Michael Caine and Alex Ferguson.

For the show’s finale Love Changes Everything will be sung by Michael Ball accompanied by a chorus of pupils from London’s Highbury Grove School.

Andrew visited Highbury Grove School last year to commend the once-failing school for putting music at the core of its curriculum and inspiring a new generation to fulfil their potential and enjoy the arts.

John Kaye Cooper, Controller of Entertainment for ITV, said: “Andrew’s contribution to musical theatre is unrivalled and we are delighted to be celebrating his four decades in the West End with an evening that promises some spectacular performances and a deeper insight into the man himself.”

The Australian tour will feature Tim Minchin as ‘Judas Iscariot’, Melanie C as ‘Mary Magdalene’ and Ben Forster in the role of ‘Jesus’. Also starring in the Australian production will be Jon Stevens returning to Jesus Christ Superstar in the role of ‘Pontius Pilate’ and Andrew O’Keefe in the role of ‘King Herod’. Stevens played Judas in the 1992 Australian arena tour and the 1994 theatre production, as well as having been the frontman for INXS from 2000 – 2004 and the lead singer of Noiseworks. O’Keefe is a popular TV presenter in Australia, on screens across the country seven days a week hosting the popular shows Deal or No Deal and Weekend Sunrise.

It has been over 20 years since Jesus Christ Superstar last toured Australia: In 1992 a production which starring Jon Stevens as Judas and John Farnham as Jesus, toured Australian arenas to phenomenal success, running for 84 nights and attended by a still record 987,000 people, grossing over $40 million at the box office. The soundtrack went on to sell 4 x Platinum.

Andrew Lloyd Webber says: “I’m thrilled that Australia is to be the first leg for our international tour of the new Jesus Christ Superstar. We had an overwhelming reception when the show toured the country for an astounding 84 dates in 1992. I hope this new production, which has been totally re-conceived for the 21st century, will entertain a new generation of Australians as well as those who already love the show.”

The production will then return for an encore season across UK arenas starting 1 October in Glasgow’s new Hydro Arena. The original UK cast will return for the 2013 run, including Tim Minchin as ‘Judas Iscariot’, Melanie C as ‘Mary Magdalene’ and Chris Moyles as ‘King Herod’ and Ben Forster, in the title role of ‘Jesus’.

The inaugural run in September 2012 was seen by over 150,000 people, breaking previous audience records, with 74,000 fans seeing the show on its opening weekend.

Click here for ticket information »

The Jesus Christ Superstar arena tour is a co-production between AEG Live, and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Really Useful Group. ‘Superstar’ was an ITV Studios Production for ITV1.

Jesus Christ Superstar had an excellent night, with Melanie C (Mary Magdalene) and Tim Minchin (Judas Iscariot) both picking up awards for Best Supporting Actress and Actor in a Musical. As neither had earned their fame through musical theatre, both felt the need to express their appreciation and gratitude towards the theatre community for watching their performances without prejudice.

They also treated the audience to a performance of Lloyd Webber-Tim Rice classics, “Heaven on Their Minds” and “I Don’t Know How to Love Him”.

It means so much for Jesus Christ Superstar to be nominated for FIVE WOS Awards (let alone win two of them!) as they are entirely voted for by the theatregoing public, so we’d like to extend a huge thank you to everybody who voted for us.

The show’s regeneration takes us back to its origins in the US as an arena tour, but it had never before been seen this way in the UK until September.

We are very excited today to announce that tickets are officially on sale and can be purchased right now from the Tickets page!

More good news!

Irish fans will be delighted to hear will be adding two new dates to the tour:

19 March 2013 – Odyssey Arena, Belfast
21 March 2013 – The O2, Dublin

Tickets for these dates will be on sale from Thursday 13th December… All the information you need is on our Tickets page so what are you still doing here?!

The show returns to the UK by popular demand, after receiving overwhelming praise during its inaguaral UK run from both audiences and critics alike.  The run was seen by over 150,000 thousand people, breaking previous audience records with 74,000 fans seeing the show its opening weekend.

Award-winning Tim Minchin as ‘Judas Iscariot’, Spice Girl Melanie C as ‘Mary Magdalene’ and Chris Moyles as ‘King Herod’.   Winner of ITV’s Superstar, Ben Forster, also returns in the title role of ‘Jesus’.

Andrew Lloyd Webber says:  “Last year’s tour was the first-ever UK arena tour of Jesus Christ Superstar and it surpassed our expectations.  The response from audiences across the UK and Ireland was overwhelming and the show was everything I had hoped for.  It’s great news that fans will have a final chance to see the show with the original arena tour cast of Tim Minchin, Mel C, Chris Moyles, Ben Forster and Alex Hanson.”

Celebrating over 40 years since it first opened in London’s West End, these final dates of Jesus Christ Superstar arena tour kick off in Nottingham on 10^th March before visiting London, Liverpool, Cardiff, Manchester and Newcastle. The tour culminates in Birmingham on 28^th March:

10^th March - Nottingham Capital FM arena

13^th March - London O2 Arena

15^th March - Liverpool Echo Arena

17^th March - Cardiff Motorpoint Arena

24^th March - Manchester Arena

26^th March - Newcastle Metro Arena

28^th March - Birmingham NIA

Tickets for the UK tour priced £30-65 will be on sale from 9.00am on Friday 7^th December.

We are delighted to announce that Andrew Lloyd Webber’s spectacular new arena production of Jesus Christ Superstar is now available to own forever on DVD and Blu-Ray.

Witnessing this stunning show was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many people, but now you can relive the whole experience with Tim Minchin, Melanie C, Chris Moyles and Ben Forster in beautiful HD and crisp 5.1 surround sound in the conform of your own living room.

IN SELECTED CINEMAS WORLDWIDE FROM OCTOBER 29

AFTER CRITICS HAIL THE OPENING OF ITS RUN AN OVERWHELMING SUCCESS

“Lloyd Webber’s new generation of superstars hits all the right notes.”

The Times

“A work of conceptual genius”

Daily Telegraph

“Restored to its heavy metal rock origins.”

The Independent

“An almighty success!” Daily Star Sunday

“Blows away tradition.” Daily Mail

Following a triumphant opening weekend at London’s 02 Arena, Universal Pictures is delighted to announce that the 21^st century re-invention of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s rock opera “Jesus Christ Superstar” will be filmed on 4th and 5th October and shown in selected cinemas worldwide prior to a UK DVD and Blu-Ray release on November 19th.

It will be broadcast to select U.S. cinemas nationwide on Monday, Oct. 29 and again on Thursday, Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m. local time and to 60 Australian screens from November 8th for one week only.

In the US, “Jesus Christ Superstar UK Rock Spectacular” tickets are available at participating theater box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com. For a complete list of theater locations and prices, visit the NCM Fathom Events website (theaters and participants are subject to change). The event will be broadcast to more than 575 select movie theaters across the country through NCM’s exclusive Digital Broadcast Network.

Andrew Lloyd Webber said: “I have waited 42 years for Jesus Christ Superstar to play arenas in the UK, and it is great to finally see the show as it was originally intended, as an arena rock opera. I’m thrilled that Universal will be filming the new arena tour of Jesus Christ Superstar for cinema release, which allows us to capture this amazing production and share it with the world!”

The 21-date arena tour, the first ever in the UK, features a star-studded line-up which includes award-winning musical comedian, Australia’s own Tim Minchin – also the co-writer of West End smash musical Matilda – in the role of ‘Judas Iscariot’; pop icon and former Spice Girl Melanie C as ‘Mary Magdalene’; radio DJ Chris Moyles in his stage debut as ‘King Herod’; and the winner of the UK’s primetime ITV show ‘Superstar’, Ben Forster, who was chosen by the British public to take on the title role of ‘Jesus’.

An award-winning creative team has been assembled to transform this legendary rock musical into a unique, contemporary, state-of-the-art spectacular. Director Laurence Connor, known for his work on the 25^th anniversary performances and concerts for Les Miserables and The Phantom of the Opera, works alongside Mark Fisher, the acclaimed world-leading set designer responsible for the staging of the Diamond Jubilee music concert in front of Buckingham Palace, and Patrick Woodroffe who worked on the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games, to create a conceptual masterpiece.

“Jesus Christ Superstar” is a worldwide phenomenon, portraying the story of the last seven days of Christ leading up to his crucifixion as seen through the eyes of ‘Judas Iscariot’, and featuring hit songs such as ‘Superstar’, ‘I Don’t Know How To Love Him’, ‘Heaven On Their Minds’ and ‘Hosanna’.  Over 40 different cast recordings have been released in 19 different languages.

The first production of “Jesus Christ Superstar” was a US arena tour in 1971. It then debuted on Broadway, and, in 1972, UK fans finally got their chance to see this landmark show when it arrived at London’s Palace Theatre – its run of eight years and over 3,000 performances smashed all box office records. Since then, Jesus Christ Superstar has rarely left the stage, with professional productions in 42 countries around the world and with around 300 amateur productions officially licensed each year.

Universal Pictures filmed two nights of the 21-date arena tour, the first ever in the UK, for worldwide broadcasts to cinemas as well as DVD and Blu-ray™ release in early 2013 internationally, with the exception of the UK which will release in time for Christmas on November 19, 2012.  To pre-order your copy click here.

We have had fantastic audiences throughout the tour and last night was no exception, we even had a Mexican wave!

Click on the thumbnail images above to view larger pics.

They clearly enjoyed it!  Following the show Kylie tweeted – “@OfficialALW @OfficialRUG CONGRATS!!! We just saw and loved #JesusChristSuperstar

Click on the thumbnail images above to view larger pics.

Check out the fabulous first images released from the show which opened Friday night at the O2 Arena.  Click on the thumbnails above to view larger images.

The production is at London’s O2 Arena until tomorrow evening, when it moves to Glasgow.

For the full list of venues, and how to buy tickets click here.

Photograph by Dave Hogan.

Click here for the full list of venues and ticket information

AND the first public performance of a number from the new production from the show’s stars

Tomorrow night, Saturday 8th September, Andrew Lloyd Webber has a very candid chat with Jonathan Ross on Jonathan’s ITV1 show.

In addition, Tim Minchin, Melanie C and Ben Forster give the PREMIERE performance from the new arena production of JCS. The trio, along with backing singing from the show’s Soul Girls, perform an edited version of Everything’s Alright.

The show airs on ITV1 from 9.55pm

Click here for the full list of venues and ticket information

IF YOU MISSED THE BROADCAST YOU CAN WATCH AGAIN ON ITV PLAYER

The star-studded line-up includes award-winning musical comedian Tim Minchin as ‘Judas Iscariot’,Chris Moyles as ‘King Herod’ and winner of the ITV primetime show ‘Superstar’ Ben Forster as ‘Jesus’

Melanie C said: “Rehearsals have been going brilliantly, I feel so lucky to be a part of this incredible production. Mary Magdalene is such a wonderful role”.

Click here for the full list of venues and ticket information

The full cast, which can be found here, also includes Superstar finalists Jeff Anderson and Tim Prottey-Jones who will appear in the ensemble.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s new production of Jesus Christ Superstar, directed by Laurence Connor, promises to be the rock event of the year as Tim Minchin (Judas Iscariot) and Ben Forster (Jesus) began rehearsals at a secret location in London this week. The first image of the highly contemporary production has today been revealed – complete with riot police who feature heavily in the opening sequence of the new rock musical production.

Andrew Lloyd Webber said: “Even the hardened rockers in our cast were taken aback by how cutting edge Laurence’s vision for the show is.  This is the first ever arena tour of Jesus Christ Superstar in the UK and he is creating something quite extraordinary. Like the Olympics we’re not giving anything away but I promise that you won’t have seen a production of any of my shows quite like this!”

Demand has been so great for the arena tour that six new dates have been added since tickets went on sale.  Jesus Christ Superstar will now play 21 dates in 12 different locations across the UK and Ireland – including a fifth London date at Wembley Arena on 17 October.

The tour opens at London’s O2 on 21 September and culminates at Sheffield’s Motorpoint on 21 October.

Advance ticket sales have already topped £6 million and a record-breaking 74,000 people will see the show in its opening week alone.

An award-winning creative team have been assembled to transform this legendary rock musical into a unique state-of-the-art spectacular. Director Laurence Connor, known for his work on the 25^th anniversary performances and concerts for Les Miserables and Phantom of the Opera, will work alongside Mark Fisher, the acclaimed world-leading set designer responsible for the staging for the Diamond Jubilee music concert in front of Buckingham Palace. They will be joined by internationally acclaimed lighting designer Patrick Woodroffe, who worked on the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the London 2012 Olympic Games.  Both Mark and Patrick have worked on global arena and stadium tours for some of the world’s biggest music acts including the Rolling Stones and U2.

For a full list of venues to how to book click here

NEW DATE ADDED AT WEMBLEY ARENA ON 17 OCTOBER

Starring: Tim Minchin, Melanie C, Chris Moyles, and Ben Forster as “Jesus”

Continuing what has been a summer of celebrations, London has even more reason to cheer as AEG Live and The Really Useful Group proudly announce that a FIFTH London date has been added to one of the biggest UK tours of 2012 – the brand new arena production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s phenomenal, Jesus Christ Superstar. Following four shows at The O2, Londoners will now get another chance to witness the legendary rock musical LIVE as it heads to Wembley Arena. Tim Minchin, Melanie C, Chris Moyles and Ben Forster will take to the Wembley Arena stage on Wednesday 17 October performing a spectacular production of the show which includes the hit songs, “I Don’t Know How To Love Him”, “Hosanna” and “Superstar”. Tickets go on sale at 9am on Friday 17 August HERE

The addition of Wembley Arena means over 60,000 people in the capital will now see Jesus Christ Superstar which has taken over £6 million in advance booking sales to date. A total of 74,000 people will see the show in its opening week, a world record for musical theatre. The tour opens at The O2 in London on Friday 21 September before embarking on a 21 date nation tour culminating at Sheffield Motorpoint Arena on Sunday 21 October.

NEW GLASGOW DATE ADDED

Starring: Tim Minchin, Melanie C, Chris Moyles, and Ben Forster as “Jesus”

Jesus Christ Superstar continues to triumph as a second date is added to Glasgow in the forthcoming arena tour of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary rock musical.

Scotland will now have another chance to see Jesus Christ Superstar on Wednesday 26 September, with tickets ON SALE NOW from www.jesuschristsuperstar.com.

The addition of a second Glasgow show will allow fans from all across Scotland to experience seeing one of the greatest rock musicals of all time.  Thousands of people will attend the SECC over the two nights to see Jesus Christ Superstar live for the first time on an arena stage – the biggest audience yet for a musical theatre show in Scotland.

The new Glasgow date brings the total number of shows for the tour to 20, with additional dates recently added to Birmingham, Cardiff, Manchester, Nottingham, London and Dublin.

Tim Minchin will star as ‘Judas Iscariot’, with Melanie C as ‘Mary Magdalene’, Chris Moyles as ‘King Herod’ and Ben Forster in the leading role as ‘Jesus.

BOOK TICKETS NOW

This new London date of Sunday 23 September takes the total run of shows up to 19, after second dates were recently added for Birmingham, Cardiff, Manchester and Nottingham. A second Dublin date – Saturday 13 October – will go on sale this Friday.

Tickets for the fourth London show go on sale Friday 3 August at 9am from jesuschristsuperstar.com/tickets

Continuing to break audience attendances for musical theatre in the UK, over 60,000 people will see Jesus Christ Superstar in its opening week. Over 100,000 tickets have been sold and £5million taken in advance box office sales for the tour, which opens at The O2 in London on Friday 21 September. Jesus Christ Superstar will visit 10 other arenas across the UK and Ireland, before ending at Sheffield’s Motorpoint on Sunday 21 October. For the first time in the musical’s history, UK arena audiences will get the chance to see a fully staged production of the musical, live on an arena stage, in their own hometown.

Tim Minchin will star as ‘Judas Iscariot’, alongside Melanie C as ‘Mary Magdalene’, Chris Moyles as ‘King Herod’ and Ben Forster in the leading role as ‘Jesus’.

The spectacular production will come alive with a set and lighting design by Mark Fisher and Patrick Woodroffe, both fresh from working on the stunning London 2012 Opening Ceremony, having previously created designs for the likes of the Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd and U2. The show will be directed by Laurence Connor, the acclaimed director best known for the 25th Anniversary performance of The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall, the 25th Anniversary Concert of Les Misérables at London’s O2 arena, and the new UK tour of The Phantom of the Opera.

Three new dates for the first ever UK arena tour of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ Superstar have been added today due to overwhelming demand. These new dates are: Friday 5 October at Birmingham NIA, Sunday 7 October at Manchester Arena and Saturday 20 October at Nottingham Capital FM Arena.

Ben Forster will play the leading role of ‘Jesus’, opposite Tim Minchin as ‘Judas Iscariot’, Melanie C as ‘Mary Magdalene’ and Chris Moyles as ‘King Herod’. The tour will visit arenas in 11 cities around the UK and Ireland, starting at London’s O2 Arena on 21 September and ending at Sheffield’s Motorpoint on 21 October.

Ben, who came first in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s television casting show ‘Superstar’ said on winning last night, “This is a dream come true. I’m a massive fan of Andrew’s work. To have the chance to perform in front of hundreds of thousands of people in an arena with such an amazing cast is a real honour. Rehearsals start in two weeks and I just can’t wait to get stuck in to the role.”

Jesus Christ Superstar has broken global musical theatre records with over 60,000 people already booked to see the show in its opening week. The arena tour has sold in excess of 100,000 tickets and generated advance box office sales of over £5 million. Jesus Christ Superstar will give arena audiences the opportunity to witness a full production of the musical including a full staging and live band. Fans from Cardiff to Newcastle to Glasgow will be able to experience this legendary rock classic on an arena stage for the very first time.

Commenting on last night’s Superstar on ITV Andrew Lloyd Webber commented: “Once again, the British public have got it right. Ben is a true rock star and he just oozes arenability. The UK has a lot to look forward to when he takes on this iconic role.”

Melanie C added: “My leading man has been found! It’s been great to watch Ben get to the final, he’s worked so hard and has consistently got it right. I’m really looking forward to working with him on the tour.”

The spectacular production will come alive with a set and lighting design by Mark Fisher and Patrick Woodroffe, who have previously created designs for the likes of the Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd and U2. Theshow will be directed by Laurence Connor, the acclaimed director best known for the 25th Anniversary performance of The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall, the 25th Anniversary Concert of Les Misérables at London’s O2 arena, and the new UK tour of The Phantom of the Opera.

Book Tickets NOW!

Click here to buy tickets for Saturday 22 September 2012 – Matinee Performance

Viewers have been tuning in across the UK to watch ITV’s primetime show ‘Superstar’ search to cast the starring role of ‘Jesus’ for the tour, which opens at London’s The O2 arena on Friday 21 September. The 10 finalists – Ben Forster, David Hunter, Dirk Johnston, Jeff Anderson, Nathan James, Niall Sheehy, Roger Wright, Rory Taylor, Jon Moses and Tim Prottey-Jones – will now battle it out in front of a panel of live judges led by Andrew Lloyd Webber, for the chance to rock out at some of the UK’s biggest arenas in the Autumn, alongside Tim Minchin as ‘Judas Iscariot’, Melanie C as ‘Mary Magdalene’ and Chris Moyles as ‘King Herod’. The final on 25 July will reveal who will star as Jesus.

View all Jesus Christ Superstar Arena Tour shows

Andrew’s keen to have his leading lady help him and the public choose their leading man so Melanie C will be joining Dawn French, Jason Donovan and Andrew Lloyd Webber for the start of the studio shows this Sunday on ITV1 at 21.00. (Saturday’s show at 20.00 announces the final 10)

“I am absolutely delighted I will be joining the fantastic panel with Andrew, Jason & Dawn for the live Superstar finals. It’s been an incredible experience so far and I just can’t wait for the nation to decide who will be playing Jesus in the amazing arena tour of the production” says Melanie C

As a successful solo artist, Melanie’s enjoyed over three million album sales, two No.1 singles, six Top 10 singles and spent over 200 combined weeks on the UK chart. She’s released four solo albums, with Northern Star (1999) and Reason (2003) followed by Beautiful Intentions (2005) and This Time (2007) on her own label, Red Girl Records.

However, it was while contemplating her fifth album that Melanie took the role of Mrs Johnstone in the popular West End show Blood Brothers.

Her theatrical debut was phenomenally well received by audiences and critics, earning 5 star reviews and a nomination for Best Actress in a Musical at the prestigious Laurence Olivier Awards.

In 2011, Melanie returned from her successful journey in musical theatre and headed back to the studio to record her fifth album, The Sea, with its first single entitled Think About It.

Melanie will be completing her Superstar circle by playing the part of Mary Magdalene in the upcoming Arena Tour, playing opposite a Jesus Christ Superstar chosen by you!

UK Arena Tour Ticketing Information:

App provides second screen experience for the upcoming revival of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ including ITV’s ‘Superstar’ airing from tonight and the UK arena tour of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ in the autumn.

Features include free bonus track, social media interaction during TV show and tour, live back-stage news, links to downloads of TV contestants’ performances and rich information on ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ past and present.

Designed to enhance the entertainment experience through the second screen of an iPhone or iPad, the app is a convenient, one-stop, mobile companion for the exciting series of events coming up for the UK revival of the legendary rock classic ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’.

Those events kick off this evening (7 July) with Lloyd Webber’s and ITV’s search for a rock star in the new, primetime TV casting show, ‘Superstar’, presented by Amanda Holden and judged by Lloyd Webber, Dawn French and Jason Donovan.

The winner of the ITV show will go on to perform the role of Jesus in the first ever UK arena tour of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ alongside Tim Minchin as Judas Iscariot, Melanie C as Mary Magdalene and Chris Moyles as Herod, opening at London’s O2 on 21 September.

A digitally remastered version of the original ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ album featuring Ian Gillan of Deep Purple (Jesus), Murray Head (Judas Iscariot) and Yvonne Elliman (Mary Magdalene) will be released on 16 July.

The official ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ app’s key features include:

• One view into real-time social media feeds enabling viewers to engage with friends and other fans as they watch the TV show and go on to attend the live arena events
• Real-time audience engagement at the arena events via a massive tweet wall
• Exclusive bonus track ‘Could We Start Again Please?’ recorded by Yvonne Elliman (this song was especially written for the 1973 movie by Tim Rice and Lloyd Webber after the release of their original ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ album and will be included in the new arena show)
• Audiovisual history of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, including new interviews with the original performers on the album
• Live gossip from the TV studio and tour
• Links to downloads of performances by contestants on ITV’s ‘Superstar’ and real-time information about the songs being performed each night
• Personalised ticket and venue information for mobile reference
• Links to official merchandise stores online enabling fans to skip the queues in arenas

Barney Wragg, managing director of the Really Useful Group, said: “To coincide with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s revival of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, we’ve developed a new app to enable fans to become active participants as we take this iconic rock show into the 21st century.

“The app is the perfect companion to the TV show, expanding your experience with more detail on the contestants, the music they’re performing and the history of the original album. The same app complements the arena tour, bringing you all the behind-the-scenes gossip and info building up to and during these massive live events – together with a free download.”

 
Official iPad & iPhone App available from the iTunes Store:

The Award will be presented at today’s ceremonies by Jessie J, who will herself be awarded with the Royal Albert Hall Best British Act Award. Amongst other award winners will be Kylie Minogue, Emeli Sandé, the Manic Street Preachers and Michael Bublé.

Now in its 37th year, the Awards honour artists from across the music industry whilst raising funds to transform the lives of vulnerable people through music.

Photo credit: Jon Furniss

Don’t miss your chance to apply for free audience tickets for the TV Studio recording of ‘Superstar’.

Superstar is the brand new show from Andrew Lloyd Webber, in search of a lead for his legendary show Jesus Christ Superstar. This will be a search for a star beyond imagination, someone with the voice, charisma and talent to play the lead.  Assisting Andrew in this challenge will be panel judges Dawn French and Jason Donovan, and the show will be hosted by Amanda Holden.

The programme will be transmitted from the Fountain Studios, 128 Wembley Park Drive, Wembley, Middlesex, HA9 8HP (Tube: Wembley Park on the Metropolitan and Jubilee lines).

Register your interest at www.lostintv.com/superstar.htm

Tune in to see Andrew himself, along with Melanie C, Jason Donovan, Dawn French & David Grindrod on the judging panel!

Superstar is coming soon to ITV1! To apply to be in the TV studio audience, CLICK HERE!

UK Arena Tour Ticketing Information:

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR opened March 22 (previews began March 1) and received Tony, Drama Desk and Drama League Award nominations for Best Musical Revival, and Josh Young received a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Musical and won a Theatre World Award for his role as Judas Iscariot.

The cast features Paul Nolan as Jesus Christ, Josh Young as Judas Iscariot, Chilina Kennedy as Mary Magdalene, Tom Hewitt as Pontius Pilate, Bruce Dow as King Herod, Marcus Nance as Caiaphas and Aaron Walpole as Annas.

Also in the cast: Matt Alfano as Thaddeus, Mary Antonini as Elizabeth, Karen Burthwright as Ruth, Jacqueline Burtney as Mary (Martha’s Sister), Mark Cassius as Matthew, Ryan Gifford as Bartholomew, Kaylee Harwood as Sarah, Jeremy Kushnier as James the Lesser/Priest, Mike Nadajewski as Peter, Melissa O’Neil as Martha/Maid by the Fire, Laurin Padolina as Rachel, Katrina Reynolds as Esther, Jaz Sealey as Thomas, Jason Sermonia as John, Julius Sermonia as James, Lee Siegel as Simon Zealotes, Jonathan Winsby as Phillip, Sandy Winsby as Andrew, Nick Cartell as Jonah/Swing, with Krista Leis, Matthew Rossoff and Matt Stokes as swings.

The Stratford Shakespeare Festival production of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR is produced by The Dodgers and The Really Useful Group, Latitude Link, Tamara and Kevin Kinsella, Pelican Group, Waxman-Dokton, with Joe Corcoran, Detsky/Sokolowski/Kassie, Florin-Blanshay-Fan/Broadway Across America, REG/Caudwell, Shin/Coleman, Theatre Dreams North America, LLC.

Ticketing Information:

Tickets for JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR are available by calling Ticketmaster.com at (877) 250-2929, (800) 432-7250 outside the NY metro area, online at Ticketmaster.com or in person at the Neil Simon Theatre box office (250 West 52nd Street). Box office hours are Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday from 12:00pm to 6:00pm.

The performance schedule varies.

FIRST LONDON SHOW SOLD OUT FOR NEW ROCK ARENA TOUR OF JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR

SECOND DATE ADDED

TIM MINCHIN IN HIS ULTIMATE DREAM ROLE AS ‘JUDAS ISCARIOT’

MELANIE C AND CHRIS MOYLES IN ALL-STAR CAST

Due to phenomenal demand, a second London date has been announced for the brand new rock arena tour of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ Superstar, after the first London date sold out within 24 hours of going on sale.

Jesus Christ Superstar will now play at London’s The O2 arena on Saturday 22 September, as well as Friday 21 September.

Tickets for the tour – which will also visit Glasgow, Newcastle, Manchester, Cardiff, Birmingham, Belfast, Dublin, Liverpool, Nottingham and Sheffield during September and October -  went on sale yesterday. Tickets are available from here.

An all-star cast for this exciting new production of Jesus Christ Superstar was unveiled this week, with award winning musical comedian Tim Minchin, an arena selling attraction not normally known for starring in musical theatre, taking the lead with his all time dream role as ‘Judas Iscariot’. Pop icon Melanie C will play ‘Mary Magdelene’ with radio presenter Chris Moyles as ‘King Herod’.

The ITV primetime show ‘Superstar’ will give the UK public the chance to decide who will play the starring role of ‘Jesus’, with a panel of live show judges led by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

The album was the starting point of the Jesus Christ Superstar phenomenon and spawned the now world famous theatrical stage show and Hollywood film. Featuring a long list of legendary musicians, the album has renowned rock vocalist and Deep Purple frontman Ian Gillan voicing the part of Jesus, platinum selling solo artist Murray Head as Judas Iscariot and the inimitable Yvonne Elliman in the role of Mary Magdalene.

Originally released in 1970, the album achieved huge global fame, most notably in the United States where it went to Number 1 on the Billboard Album Chart, keeping other seminal records by George Harrison and Led Zeppelin off the top spot and going on to sell over 7 million copies worldwide.

Andrew Lloyd Webber said ‘The re-mastered album sounds fantastic and we hope that fans both old and new will enjoy it.’

The release comes in the wake of the recording’s 40th anniversary, and with exciting plans afoot; ITV and Andrew Lloyd Webber are launching a show to search for a performer to play Jesus in a newly realised UK arena tour that will feature Tim Minchin as Judas Iscariot, Melanie C as Mary Magdalene and Chris Moyles as King Herod.

Celebrated and loved by millions, Jesus Christ Superstar portrays the story of the last seven days of Christ’s life leading up to his crucifixion, with hit songs such as ‘Superstar’, ‘I Don’t Know How To Love Him’, ‘Heaven On Their Minds’ and ‘Hosanna’. Recorded in 1969, the album has since become recognised by many as one of the first rock concept albums. As well as having some of the era’s most prominent vocalists, the record also features a number of legendary rock music session musicians such as Neil Hubbard (Bryan Ferry, BB King, Elton John), Chris Spedding (Roxy Music, John Cale), Alan Spenner (Joe Cocker, Peter Frampton) and Bruce Rowland (Paul McCartney’s Wings, Fairport Convention).

In the wake of the album’s huge success in America, a live production of Jesus Christ Superstar soon followed and played to packed out arenas during US tours in 1971, and then in 1972. UK fans finally got their chance to see this landmark show when it arrived at London’s Palace Theatre – its run of eight years and over 3,000 performances smashed all box office records.

With the re-release of the album and a wealth of other activity to follow, a whole new generation of rock fans are set to experience the magic of Jesus Christ Superstar.

Listen to clips from the album and pre-order your copy here.

AMANDA HOLDEN CONFIRMED AS SUPERSTAR HOST FOR THE ITV STUDIOS PRODUCED SERIES

ADDITIONAL GUEST ARTISTS WILL JOIN THROUGHOUT THE LIVE SHOWS

Following this week’s Jesus Christ Superstar UK Arena Tour casting announcement, ITV1 and Andrew Lloyd Webber today announce further details about Superstar and the forthcoming televised live shows in the Summer.

All live show finalists in the series, produced by ITV studios, will be battling it out on stage to sing the title role of Jesus in the first ever UK arena tour of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary Jesus Christ Superstar.  This new rock production will play in arenas nationwide in the Autumn and demands not only the highest vocal standards but also someone that can act and captivate massive arena audience.

Andrew Lloyd Webber, with the assistance of David Grindrod, Melanie C and Jason Donovan, have now finished the nationwide audition tour which also included vocal and performance challenges.

Superstar host Amanda Holden (Britain’s Got Talent, Cutting It, The Grimley’s), has been on hand for all the auditionees throughout the latter stages of the search getting to know each of their personalities.

“It’s an absolute honour to be working with Andrew on Superstar.  We’ve discovered some wonderful talent for the viewers, I already feel very protective of them, I’m like Mother Hen with all my boys!” said Amanda Holden

Also confirmed today are British actress, writer and comedy legend, Dawn French (Jam & Jerusalem and The Vicar of Dibley) and award winning singer, actor, Jason Donovan (Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Priscilla) who will be joining Andrew on the live show judging panel.

Comedienne Dawn French said “I’m gagging to find Jesus with the help of the Good Lord.  I have actually been searching for him my whole life, and I can’t believe that inside a few weeks we are going to find him.  The fact that he is going to be a Rock God is a massive bonus.”

Jason Donovan who has made his mark already on Superstar by assisting Andrew in the early stages of the competition moves to a judging seat next to Andrew and Dawn. Melanie C, who will take on the role of Mary Magdalene in the arena tour, will continue to support the judges during the live shows.

“We have unearthed some cracking talent so far and I’m really pleased I’ve had time to get to know the finalists as we’ve moved through the competition stages.  It’s an honour to sit by Andrew on the judging panel and I can’t wait for the live shows to start” said Jason Donovan

Andrew Lloyd Webber said: “The prize of this talent search has to be the biggest of any reality show ever.  The winner will be part of a star cast including Tim Minchin, Mel C and Chris Moyles playing in arenas up and down the country.  I am thrilled with the finalists I have chosen to put through to the live shows, they could not be a more varied bunch.  Viewers will have some really exciting performances to look forward to.”

The live show judges will offer their opinions to each of the finalists on stage as they battle it out to win the votes of the British public. The various special guest artists will also be invited to offer their opinions on the contenders.

The winner’s prize will be the leading role in a new arena tour of the legendary Jesus Christ Superstar which will open at London’s O2 arena on 21st September.

Casting for the UK Arena Tour of Jesus Christ Superstar was announced this week, with Tim Minchin, Melanie C and Chris Moyles joining the Superstar winner onstage. Tickets for the tour go onsale from 9am today, Friday 18th May. For more information on the tour, including dates and venues, click here.

Superstar is executive produced by Peter Davey with Katharine Begg as series producer.

Superstar is an ITV Studios production for ITV1.

Click here for full information on venues and dates – tickets will be onsale TOMORROW morning, Friday 18th May, from 9am.

Award-winning musical comedian Tim Minchin will play Judas Iscariot, three million album selling pop icon and former Spice Girl Melanie C appears as Mary, and BBC Radio 1’s Breakfast Show host Chris Moyles is set to make his major stage debut as King Herod.

Tim, Melanie, Chris, and composer Andrew Lloyd Webber are pictured here at The O2 Arena in London, where the tour will open on Friday 21 September. Tickets for all tour dates go onsale this Friday 18th May from 9am. Click here for full information.

THE PUBLIC TO CAST THE ROLE OF ‘JESUS’

TICKETS ON SALE NOW – CLICK HERE

DIGITALLY REMASTERED ALBUM RELEASED 16 JULY

The Really Useful Group and AEG Live today announce the first ever UK arena tour of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary rock classic Jesus Christ Superstar.

Award-winning musical comedian Tim Minchin – also the co-writer of West End smash musical Matilda – is confirmed for the role of ‘Judas Iscariot’. Three million album selling pop icon and former Spice Girl Melanie C will take the only female lead as ‘Mary Magdalene’, and BBC Radio 1’s Breakfast Show host Chris Moyles will make his major stage debut as ‘King Herod’, in what is set to be one of the biggest and most impressive arena tours to hit the UK.

The ITV primetime show ‘Superstar’ will give the UK public the chance to decide who will play the starring role of ‘Jesus’, with a panel of live show judges led by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Celebrating 40 years since it first opened in London’s West End, the Jesus Christ Superstar arena tour kicks off in London on 21 September before visiting Glasgow, Newcastle, Manchester, Cardiff, Birmingham, Belfast, Dublin, Liverpool and Nottingham. The tour culminates in Sheffield on 21 October.

Tickets for the UK tour priced £45-65 go on sale at 9.00am on Friday 18 May.

Andrew Lloyd Webber said:

“Jesus Christ Superstar began life as an album followed by a sell-out arena tour of the US.  Our very first show was at the Civic Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where we played to over 13,000 people.  Tim and I have always wanted to take Superstar back to its roots and we are both delighted that it will finally play an arena tour in the UK in venues where many of the world’s great rock acts have gone before.  We’re thrilled to have such great talent in the cast for the new show – they are all true ambassadors of UK entertainment. The re-mastered album sounds fantastic and we hope that fans both old and new will enjoy it.”

Tim Minchin said:

“As a huge fan of Jesus Christ Superstar, I’ve always thought it needed 3 key things: a big cast and band; loads of volume; and me playing Judas. I’ve been in two small productions of the show, and understudied the big man both times. I am really bloody excited about this.”

Melanie C said:

“I have been lucky enough to perform at  arenas across the globe and to star in London’s West End but taking on the role of Mary Magdalene in the incredible Jesus Christ Superstar has to be one my most exciting challenges to date.

I can’t wait to take the show to some of my favourite venues in the UK with such a talented and formidable cast including Tim and Chris.”

Chris Moyles said:

“To receive a phonecall from Andrew is very cool, but then when he asks you to be in his musical that’s pretty amazing and there is only one thing to respond with… And that is yes! Absolutely! My mum’s gonna be well excited!”

The original multi-million selling Jesus Christ Superstar double-album, released in 1970, became a No.1 hit record in the US charts and spawned the live show phenomenon. The album features Ian Gillan as ‘Jesus’, Murray Head as ‘Judas Iscariot’, Mike d’Abo as ‘Herod’ and Yvonne Elliman as ‘Mary Magdalene’, plus legendary rock music session musicians such as Neil Hubbard (Bryan Ferry, BB King, Elton John), Chris Spedding (Roxy Music, John Cale), Alan Spenner (Joe Cocker, Peter Frampton) and Bruce Rowland (Paul McCartney’s Wings, Fairport Convention). The album has been digitally re-mastered and will be released on 16 July through Polydor.

The Jesus Christ Superstar arena tour is a co-production between AEG Live, and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Really Useful Group.  ‘Superstar’ is an ITV Studios Production for ITV1. Jesus Christ Superstar the album is released by Polydor, a division of Universal Music.

Jesus Christ Superstar Tour Dates:

Friday 21 September           London O2 Arena
Tuesday 25 September        Glasgow SECC
Friday 28 September           Newcastle Metro Radio Arena
Sunday 30 September         Manchester Arena
Tuesday 2 October               Cardiff Motorpoint
Thursday 4 October             Birmingham NIA
Tuesday 9 October                Belfast Odyssey (on sale 24th May at 9am)
Friday 12 October                 Dublin O2 (on sale 24th May at 9am)
Tuesday 16 October             Liverpool Echo Arena
Friday 19 October                 Nottingham Capital FM Arena
Sunday 21 October               Sheffield Motorpoint

For more information on the Broadway production, visit SuperstarOnBroadway.com.

The production, directed by Des McAnuff, is nominated for Best Revival of a Musical, while Josh Young – who plays Judas Iscariot – is up for Best Featured Actor in a Musical.

The American Theatre Wing’s Tony Awards® are presented by Tony Award Productions, a joint venture of The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing. The two organizations have jointly administered the Tonys since 1967, the year of the first Tony telecast.

The winners of the 2012 Tony Awards will be announced in a special ceremony which will be broadcast live from the Beacon Theatre on CBS, Sunday, June 10th, 8:00 – 11:00 p.m. (ET/PT time delay).

For the full list of nominees, visit the Tony Awards website, and go to SuperstarOnBroadway.com for the latest on Jesus Christ Superstar Broadway.

View footage from the Broadway production below, and visit www.superstaronbroadway.com for more information.

The Drama League Awards are the oldest theatrical honors in America and the only major award chosen by audience members. This year’s winners will be announced at a special ceremony, to be held at the Marriott Marquis Times Square on Friday, May 18, 2012.

Since 1916, The Drama League of New York has been at the forefront of the American Theatre community, providing talent, audiences, and prosperous support. It is one of the nation’s oldest continuously-operating, not-for-profit arts advocacy and education organizations.

For more information on the Drama League Awards and the voting process, click here. Visit the official website for the Broadway production of Jesus Christ Superstar here.

Read the review highlights following the JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR opening on Broadway last week.

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
By Chris Jones

As he did in Stratford last summer, McAnuff embraces one of the musical theater’s most unusual, famous, bizarre, historically audacious and, in this instance, thoroughly enjoyable properties with a production remarkably in sync with the material. The savvy set design, by Robert Brill, uses platforms, staircases and catwalks that, with the help of Paul Tazewell’s use of punky but oft-metallic attire, put one in mind of the show’s loose alignment with Deep Purple and the other British rock goliaths of its thunderous era. And then, during the spectacular crucifixion scene, he uses those ubiquitous news-crawls that fill the proscenium with text and, crucially, make you ponder the staying power of the words and persona of Jesus Christ, cutting though the very kind of noise we’ve just been enjoying. All of the classic song stylings feel like they’re in place and respectfully wailed by actors happy to sing their faces off.

Click here to read the entire review.

NEW YORK POST
By Elisabeth Vincentelli

Hearing excellent singers deliver these tunes through powerful, crisp amplification is a primal thrill.

Click here to read the entire review.

BERGEN RECORD
By Robert Feldberg

If you thought you had a bead on “Jesus Christ Superstar” — great rock score, elementary version of “the greatest story ever told” — the electric revival that opened Thursday night at the Neil Simon Theatre will induce serious second thoughts….”Jesus Christ Superstar” is indelibly a show of its time, but this production suggests that it was built to last.

Click here to read the entire review.

VILLAGE VOICE
By Michael Musto

This Superstar made me a believer again.

Click here to read the entire review.

TORONTO GLOBE AND MAIL
By Kelly Nestruck

A revelatory production.

Click here to read the entire review.

HOLLYWOOD REPORTER
By David Rooney

Music director Rick Fox treats the rock-symphonic score and vocals with integrity appropriate to the era in which the material was born. And McAnuff’s pedal-to-the-metal direction never precludes sincerity as it weighs the once-controversial man-or-Messiah question. That means this staging is likely to speak to ‘70s nostalgists (guilty as charged) as well as younger musical fans curious to know what the fuss was about.

Click here to read the entire review.

PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER
By Howard Shapiro

What a divine season it is for Jesus on Broadway. On one stage, nuns make a joyful noise in Sister Act. On another, he figures highly in The Book of Mormon. Yet another has him as the central figure in Godspell. And he is now in revival – here, we’re talking Broadway more than theology – in an effusive Jesus Christ Superstar, the Tim Rice-Andrew Lloyd Webber musical that opened Thursday. It’s full of powerful, melodic ’70s-tinged music – the show premiered in 1971 and “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” broke out to become a hit. The score, with Rice’s clever lyrics and Lloyd Webbers many fanfare songs, is great fun to hear again, or probably also for the first time.

Click here to read the entire review.

FOX-5
By Pat Collins

The prayers of Jesus Christ Superstar fans have been answered.  The Andrew Lloyd Webber-Tim Rice rock opera is back on Broadway with a heaven sent cast in director Des McAnuff’s dazzling production.

(No link available)

WOR RADIO
By David Richardson

I could use every superlative adjective ever written in describing my evening in the theater the other night, but it’s more than obvious that I adored this new production of Jesus Christ Superstar.

(No link available)

ITV1 today confirmed that Melanie C and Jason Donovan would be joining the Superstar team for the final auditions.  This experienced duo, along with casting expert David Grindrod will assist Andrew Lloyd Webber as he decides on those finalists who will go through to the live studio shows on ITV1 this Summer.

All finalists will be battling it out on stage to sing the title role of Jesus in Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary rock opera, Jesus Christ Superstar.  This new rock production will play in arenas nationwide and demands not only the highest vocal standards but also someone that can act and engage with a massive arena audience.

Andrew Lloyd Webber has selected Melanie C and Jason Donovan as they have previously performed on arena tours as pop stars and have also made the successful transition to the West End stage. As such, they will feedback into Andrew Lloyd Webber after spending time with the budding hopefuls watching them perform, sing and act.  Andrew Lloyd Webber will oversee the casting process at all times.

Andrew Lloyd Webber said:  “I’m pleased to appoint David, Jason and Melanie to assist me with the candidates during Callbacks as I select my final 40 to go further for intensive training.  They will be using their unique arena and stage experience to help me narrow down my choices for the live shows. What we’re looking for is a rock star who will go on to sing the role of Jesus in the UK’s first ever arena tour of Jesus Christ Superstar.”

British singer-songwriter Melanie C has a hugely successful music background, both as a solo artist and within the Spice Girls.  She was also nominated for Best Actress at the 2010 Olivier Awards for her role as Mrs Johnstone in the musical Blood Brothers by Willy Russell in London’s West End.

“I’m a huge fan of Andrew’s incredible work over the years. I am honoured and excited to work along side him helping to find a performer with the raw talent and charisma to play the title role of Jesus” said Melanie C.

Jason Donovan famously starred as lead in the 1992 West End revival of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, which received two Laurence Olivier Awards.  Other stage highlights include; The Rocky Horror Show, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert to name a few.  His lead role in Joseph earned him his third UK No 1 single with Any Dream Will Do and to date he’s sold over 3 million records in the UK with four UK No 1 singles.

“We’ve got an amazing challenge ahead of us, helping Andrew in his quest to find someone to play the title role of Jesus in the new arena tour of Jesus Christ Superstar.  I can’t wait to start working with Andrew again” said Jason Donovan

Auditions have already taken place across the country in London, Dublin, Belfast, Manchester, Glasgow and Cardiff. The next stage after this will be Callbacks, if the auditionees are successful, they’ll then enter a week long ‘pop up’ performance school that’s designed to bring out the very best in acting and vocal ability.

Once the finalists are chosen by Andrew Lloyd Webber they’ll then perform for the ‘Live Show Judges’ – a separate star studded panel of Judges who will appear exclusively on the live shows when they start this Summer on ITV1.

These judges will offer their opinions to each of the finalists on stage as they battle it out to win the votes of the British public.

The winner’s prize will be the leading role in a new arena tour of the legendary rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber which will open at London’s O2 arena later this year.

Superstar is executive produced by Peter Davey with Katharine Begg as series producer.

Superstar is an ITV Studios production for ITV1.

Auditions for ITV’s Superstar -  a brand new show that will give the British public the chance to choose the country’s next major rock star – are now well underway, with a team of experts scouring the country for potential Superstars.

The life-changing prize on offer will see the show’s winner land the leading role in a new arena tour of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar, which will open at London’s O2 arena.

Andrew Lloyd Webber has been in attendance at some of the auditions, and shared his thoughts with Glasgow’s STV and UTV in Belfast. Follow the links below to find out what Andrew’s looking for…

STV interview

UTV interview

Broadway’s Jesus Christ Superstar announces student rush policy

$27 AT THE BOX OFFICE ON THE DAY OF PERFORMANCE

The Broadway production of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR has announced a Student Rush policy.  Tickets for $27 will be available at the box office on the day of the performance, cash only with a valid student ID, limit of 2 tickets per person.

Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, directed by the Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s Artistic Director and 2-time Tony Award winner Des McAnuff, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR opens March 22, 2012 (previews begin March 1) at the Neil Simon Theatre (250 West 52nd Street).

The cast features Paul Nolan as Jesus Christ, Josh Young as Judas Iscariot, Chilina Kennedy as Mary Magdalene, Tom Hewitt as Pontius Pilate, Bruce Dow as King Herod, Marcus Nance as Caiaphas and Aaron Walpole as Annas.

Also in the cast: Matt Alfano as Thaddeus, Mary Antonini as Elizabeth, Karen Burthwright as Ruth, Jacqueline Burtney as Mary (Martha’s Sister), Mark Cassius as Matthew, Ryan Gifford as Bartholomew, Kaylee Harwood as Sarah, Jeremy Kushnier as James the Lesser/Priest, Mike Nadajewski as Peter, Melissa O’Neil as Martha/Maid by the Fire, Laurin Padolina as Rachel, Katrina Reynolds as Esther, Jaz Sealey as Thomas, Jason Sermonia as John, Julius Sermonia as James, Lee Siegel as Simon Zealotes, Jonathan Winsby as Phillip, Sandy Winsby as Andrew, and Nick Cartell, Krista Leis, Matthew Rossoff and Matt Stokes as swings.

In addition to Mr. McAnuff as Director, the creative team includes Choreographer Lisa Shriver, Musical Director Rick Fox, Set Designer Robert Brill, Costume Designer Paul Tazewell, Lighting Designer Howell Binkley, Sound Designer Steve Canyon Kennedy and Video Designer Sean Nieuwenhuis.

The Stratford Shakespeare Festival production of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR is produced by The Dodgers and the Really Useful Group.

Tickets for JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR are available through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 877-250-2929, or in person at the Neil Simon Theatre box office, 250 West 52nd Street; box office hours 10am to 8pm Monday-Saturday.  Group sales (of 15 or more) are on sale now and available by calling 1-877-536-3437.
 Ticket Pricing:

Ticket prices (including the $2 facility fee) range from $62-$99 for previews (March 1-March 21), $62-$142 for performances March 22 onward.

Performance schedule:

March 1 through March 24:  Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8pm; Tuesday at 7pm; matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2pm (note, curtain is at 8pm on Tuesday, March 6).  Opening night curtain on March 22 is at 6:45pm.  Beginning March 27:  Tuesday through Thursday at 7pm, Friday and Saturday at 8pm, matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2pm, Sunday at 3pm.

For more information, visit www.superstaronbroadway.com.

Rehearsals begin today for the Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Jesus Christ Superstar 

FINAL CASTING ANNOUNCED

Rehearsals begin today, Thursday, February 9, for The Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s hit production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR.  Directed by the Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s Artistic Director and 2-time Tony Award winner Des McAnuff, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR opens March 22, 2012 (previews begin March 1) at the Neil Simon Theatre (250 West 52^nd Street).

The cast features Paul Nolan as Jesus Christ, Josh Young as Judas Iscariot, Chilina Kennedy as Mary Magdalene, Tom Hewitt as Pontius Pilate, Bruce Dow as King Herod, Marcus Nance as Caiaphas and Aaron Walpole as Annas.

Also in the cast: Matt Alfano as Thaddeus, Mary Antonini as Elizabeth, Karen Burthwright as Ruth, Jacqueline Burtney as Mary (Martha’s Sister), Mark Cassius as Matthew, Ryan Gifford as Bartholomew, Kaylee Harwood as Sarah, Jeremy Kushnier as James the Lesser/Priest, Mike Nadajewski as Peter, Melissa O’Neil as Martha/Maid by the Fire, Laurin Padolina as Rachel, Katrina Reynolds as Esther, Jaz Sealey as Thomas, Jason Sermonia as John, Julius Sermonia as James, Lee Siegel as Simon Zealotes, Jonathan Winsby as Phillip, Sandy Winsby as Andrew, and Nick Cartell, Krista Leis, Matthew Rossoff and Matt Stokes as swings.

In addition to Mr. McAnuff as Director, the creative team includes Choreographer Lisa Shriver, Musical Director Rick Fox, Set Designer Robert Brill, Costume Designer Paul Tazewell, Lighting Designer Howell Binkley, Sound Designer Steve Canyon Kennedy and Video Designer Sean Nieuwenhuis.

The Stratford Shakespeare Festival production of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR is produced by The Dodgers and the Really Useful Group. 

Tickets for JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR are available at the Neil Simon Theatre, 250 West 52^nd Street.  Box office hours are Monday through Saturday 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.  Tickets also available through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 877-250-2929.  Group sales (of 15 or more) are on sale now and available by calling 1-877-536-3437.

Here’s a reason to Like the Official JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR Facebook page if you aren’t a fan already!  The Broadway-bound Stratford Shakespeare Festival hit production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR is offering a few lucky Facebook Fans (and guests) an opportunity to win two passes to a private cast performance on Friday, February 17 at a secret location as well as tickets to an upcoming performance of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR at the Neil Simon Theatre.  To enter to win,  click here.  Hurry, contest ends Monday, February 13 at midnight, EST.

Directed by the Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s Artistic Director and 2-time Tony Award winner Des McAnuff, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR opens March 22, 2012 (previews begin March 1) at the Neil Simon Theatre (250 West 52nd Street).

The cast features Paul Nolan as Jesus Christ, Josh Young as Judas Iscariot, Chilina Kennedy as Mary Magdalene, Tom Hewitt as Pontius Pilate, Bruce Dow as King Herod, Marcus Nance as Caiaphas and Aaron Walpole as Annas.

Also in the cast: Matt Alfano as Thaddeus, Mary Antonini as Elizabeth, Karen Burthwright as Ruth, Jacqueline Burtney as Mary (Martha’s Sister), Mark Cassius as Matthew, Ryan Gifford as Bartholomew, Kaylee Harwood as Sarah, Jeremy Kushnier as James the Lesser/Priest, Mike Nadajewski as Peter, Melissa O’Neil as Martha/Maid by the Fire, Laurin Padolina as Rachel, Katrina Reynolds as Esther, Jaz Sealey as Thomas, Jason Sermonia as John, Julius Sermonia as James, Lee Siegel as Simon Zealotes, Jonathan Winsby as Phillip, Sandy Winsby as Andrew, and Nick Cartell, Krista Leis, Matthew Rossoff and Matt Stokes as swings.

In addition to Mr. McAnuff as Director, the creative team includes Choreographer Lisa Shriver, Musical Director Rick Fox, Set Designer Robert Brill, Costume Designer Paul Tazewell, Lighting Designer Howell Binkley, Sound Designer Steve Canyon Kennedy and Video Designer Sean Nieuwenhuis.

This ground-breaking rock opera, which reinvented musical theatre for the modern age, tells the story of the last week of Christ’s life.  The score includes such chart-topping songs as “I Don’t Know How To Love Him,” “Everything’s Alright” and “Superstar.”

The Los Angeles Times wrote “O ye of little faith. To all those who made snarky comments when it was announced that ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ was being resurrected by Des McAnuff, I say unto you, “Go down to La Jolla Playhouse and observe the benevolent gift of this revival, which has had the miraculous effect of turning even an Andrew Lloyd Webber denier like me into a momentary believer.”

Variety wrote “In Des McAnuff’s Broadway-bound revival of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar,’ costume designer Paul Tazewell dresses the title character in solid white, as if offering a blank canvas on which the world is invited to paint for the next 2,000 years and beyond. The usefulness of the carpenter from Nazareth to serve everyone’s select purposes is the theme here, surely the most thoughtful and scintillating reading of the Webber/Rice rock opera since its 1969 recording.”

The Globe and Mail wrote, “This production is an absolute miracle,” while the Toronto Star called it “the best show you’ll see this year.” “A sparkling production literally pulsing with life,” wrote the Toronto Sun; and Variety enthused, “McAnuff has managed to come up with a vision that is faithful to the original but manages to make it seem fresh to an audience in 2011.”

Tickets for JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR are now available at the Neil Simon Theatre, 250 West 52nd Street.  Box office hours are Monday through Saturday 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.  Tickets also available through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 877-250-2929.  Group sales (of 15 or more) are on sale now and available by calling 1-877-536-3437.

Ticket Pricing:

Ticket prices (including the $2 facility fee) range from $62-$99 for previews (March 1-March 21), $62-$142 for performances March 22 onward.

Performance schedule:

March 1 through March 24:  Monday, Wednesday through Saturday at 8:00 PM, Tuesday at 7:00 PM, matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2:00 PM.  Opening night curtain on March 22 is at 7:00 PM.  Beginning March 27:  Tuesday through Thursday at 7:00 PM, Friday and Saturday at 8:00 PM, matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2:00 PM, Sunday at 3:00 PM.

The BroadwayWorld.com Awards allow theatre fans to vote for their favourite shows and productions. Voting ran from October – December 2011, and the latest Toronto awards also broke traffic records for the website with more than 12,000 votes cast across a number of categories.

Jesus Christ Superstar was the big winner, with the Broadway-bound production winning in 11 categories including Best Musical. The production opens in New York at the Neil Simon Theatre from March 2012.

See below for Jesus Christ Superstar‘s full list of BroadwayWorld.com Awards, and click here to see the awards in full.

Best Direction of a Musical
Des McAnuff – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Leading Actor (Musical)
Josh Young – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Leading Actress (Musical) Chilina Kennedy – Jesus Christ Superstar- Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Musical
Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Musical Direction
Rick Fox – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Original Choreography
Lisa Shriver – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Original Costume Design
Paul Tazewell – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Original Lighting Design
Howell Binkley – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Original Set Design
Robert Brill – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Original Sound Design
Jim Neil – Jesus Christ Superstar – Stratford Shakespeare Festival

Best Performance by a Female in a Feature Role/Ensemble (Musical)
Melissa O’Neil – Jesus Christ Superstar- Stratford Shakespeare Festival

The box office opens today, Thursday, January 26 at 10:00 AM, for The Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s hit production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR. Directed by the Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s Artistic Director Des McAnuff, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR will open March 22, 2012 (previews begin March 1) at the Neil Simon Theatre (250 West 52nd Street).

The cast will feature Paul Nolan as Jesus Christ, Josh Young as Judas Iscariot, Chilina Kennedy as Mary Magdalene, Tom Hewitt as Pontius Pilate, Bruce Dow as King Herod, Marcus Nance as Caiaphas and Aaron Walpole as Annas.

Also in the cast: Matt Alfano as Thaddeus, Mary Antonini as Elizabeth, Karen Burthwright as Ruth, Jacqueline Burtney as Mary (Martha’s Sister), Mark Cassius as Matthew, Ryan Gifford as Bartholomew, Kaylee Harwood as Sarah, Jeremy Kushnier as James the Lesser/Priest, Mike Nadajewski as Peter, Melissa O’Neil as Martha/Maid by the Fire, Laurin Padolina as Rachel, Katrina Reynolds as Esther, Jaz Sealey as Thomas, Jason Sermonia as John, Julius Sermonia as James, Lee Siegel as Simon Zealotes, Jonathan Winsby as Phillip, Sandy Winsby as Andrew, and Krista Leis and Matthew Rossoff as swings.

In addition to Mr. McAnuff as Director, the creative team includes Choreographer Lisa Shriver, Musical Director Rick Fox, Set Designer Robert Brill, Costume Designer Paul Tazewell, Lighting Designer Howell Binkley, Sound Designer Steve Canyon Kennedy and Video Designer Sean Nieuwenhuis.

This ground-breaking rock opera, which reinvented musical theatre for the modern age, tells the story of the last week of Christ’s life. The score includes such chart-topping songs as “I Don’t Know How To Love Him,” “Everything’s Alright” and “Superstar.”

The Los Angeles Times wrote “O ye of little faith. To all those who made snarky comments when it was announced that Jesus Christ Superstar was being resurrected by Des McAnuff, I say unto you, “Go down to La Jolla Playhouse and observe the benevolent gift of this revival, which has had the miraculous effect of turning even an Andrew Lloyd Webber denier like me into a momentary believer.”

Variety wrote “In Des McAnuff’s Broadway-bound revival of Jesus Christ Superstar, costume designer Paul Tazewell dresses the title character in solid white, as if offering a blank canvas on which the world is invited to paint for the next 2,000 years and beyond. The usefulness of the carpenter from Nazareth to serve everyone’s select purposes is the theme here, surely the most thoughtful and scintillating reading of the Webber/Rice rock opera since its 1969 recording.”

The Globe and Mail wrote, “This production is an absolute miracle,” while the Toronto Star called it “the best show you’ll see this year.” “A sparkling production literally pulsing with life,” wrote the Toronto Sun; and Variety enthused, “McAnuff has managed to come up with a vision that is faithful to the original but manages to make it seem fresh to an audience in 2011.”

Tickets for JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR are available at the Neil Simon Theatre, 250 West 52nd Street, beginning Thursday, January 26. Box office hours are Monday through Saturday 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Tickets also available through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 877-250-2929. Group sales (of 15 or more) are on sale now and available by calling 1-877-536-3437.

Ticket Pricing:

Ticket prices (including the $2 facility fee) range from $62-$99 for previews (March 1-March 21), $62-$142 for performances March 22 onward.

# # #

For more information, visit www.SuperstarOnBroadway.com.

The winner’s life-changing prize will be the leading role in a new arena tour of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar which will open at London’s O2 arena.

Superstar will be television’s first ‘school of rock’, helping talented singers achieve their potential. Andrew Lloyd Webber hopes the British public will help him discover an extraordinary new voice to fill the country’s largest arenas.

Andrew Lloyd Webber says: “Presenting a new, 2012 version of Jesus Christ Superstar for arenas is truly exciting. Some of the best performances of this show have been in rock venues and I’m thrilled to see the show return to its roots. ITV is providing the perfect platform for us to find a new, British Superstar.”

Andrew Lloyd Webber has previously discovered brilliant new stars for West End productions of The Sound of Music, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Oliver! and The Wizard of Oz. Theatre audiences have grown, there has been an increase in musical theatre licensing by amateur societies and a surge in applications at stage schools.

“It is the public who lead the casting process and they’ve got it absolutely right four times already. It’s been wonderful to see the careers of so many of the contestants blossom, so it will be especially fascinating to see who the public chooses as their Superstar!” says Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Auditions will take place across the country during February-March in London, Dublin, Belfast, Manchester, Glasgow and Cardiff. The UK’s most promising new talent will perform on stage in the hope of impressing the casting panel for a place in the final live shows.

The casting team will whittle down the numbers for the live shows featuring those they believe have potential to become a superstar.

Lloyd Webber will be joined by a carefully selected panel of judges to help him in his search. But ultimately it will be up to the British public to decide who they want to be his Superstar and play Jesus.

Elaine Bedell, ITV’s Director of Entertainment & Comedy, says: “We are asking ITV viewers to help us find a new superstar - in every sense of the word. We’re looking for the kind of performer who can fill arenas – and produce a rocking performance to match.”

Kevin Lygo, Managing Director of ITV Studios says: “Live primetime entertainment is at the heart of ITV Studios and we’re delighted to be working with Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber to bring this nationwide search to ITV1.”

Superstar is executive produced by Peter Davey with Katharine Begg as series producer.

Superstar is an ITV Studios production for ITV1.

How to Apply:

Please go to www.itv.com/superstar for full details on how to apply and audition. Anyone can apply over the age of 18 yrs, be it professional or amateur.

To get the very latest news on Jesus Christ Superstar, make sure you sign up for the Really Useful Group newsletter – just follow the instructions in the top right-hand corner of this page.

Preview Performances begin March 1, opening March 22 at Neil Simon Theatre

Broadway casting has been announced for The Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s hit production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, directed by the Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s Artistic Director Des McAnuff which will open March 22, 2012 (previews begin March 1) at the Neil Simon Theatre (250 West 52^nd Street).

The cast will feature Paul Nolan as Jesus Christ, Josh Young as Judas Iscariot, Chilina Kennedy as Mary Magdalene, Tom Hewitt as Pontius Pilate, Bruce Dow as King Herod, Marcus Nance as Caiaphas and Aaron Walpole as Annas.

Also in the cast: Matt Alfano as Thaddeus, Mary Antonini as Elizabeth, Karen Burthwright as Ruth, Jacqueline Burtney as Mary (Martha’s Sister), Mark Cassius as Matthew, Ryan Gifford as Bartholomew, Kaylee Harwood as Sarah, Jeremy Kushnier as James the Lesser/Priest, Mike Nadajewski as Peter, Melissa O’Neil as Martha/Maid by the Fire, Laurin Padolina as Rachel, Katrina Reynolds as Esther, Jaz Sealey as Thomas, Jason Sermonia as John, Julius Sermonia as James, Lee Siegel as Simon Zealotes, Jonathan Winsby as Phillip, Sandy Winsby as Andrew, and Krista Leis and Matthew Rossoff as swings.

In addition to Mr. McAnuff as Director, the creative team includes Choreographer Lisa Shriver, Musical Director Rick Fox, Set Designer Robert Brill, Costume Designer Paul Tazewell, Lighting Designer Howell Binkley, Sound Designer Steve Canyon Kennedy and Video Designer Sean Nieuwenhuis.

This ground-breaking rock opera, which reinvented musical theatre for the modern age, tells the story of the last week of Christ’s life.  The score includes such chart-topping songs as “I Don’t Know How To Love Him,” “Everything’s Alright” and “Superstar.”

The Los Angeles Times wrote “O ye of little faith. To all those who made snarky comments when it was announced that ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ was being resurrected by Des McAnuff, I say unto you, “Go down to La Jolla Playhouse and observe the benevolent gift of this revival, which has had the miraculous effect of turning even an Andrew Lloyd Webber denier like me into a momentary believer.”

Variety wrote “In Des McAnuff’s Broadway-bound revival of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar,’ costume designer Paul Tazewell dresses the title character in solid white, as if offering a blank canvas on which the world is invited to paint for the next 2,000 years and beyond. The usefulness of the carpenter from Nazareth to serve everyone’s select purposes is the theme here, surely the most thoughtful and scintillating reading of the Webber/Rice rock opera since its 1969 recording.”

The Globe and Mail wrote, “This production is an absolute miracle,” while the Toronto Star called it “the best show you’ll see this year.” “A sparkling production literally pulsing with life,” wrote the Toronto Sun; and Variety enthused, “McAnuff has managed to come up with a vision that is faithful to the original but manages to make it seem fresh to an audience in 2011.”

Tickets for JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR are available through Ticketmaster at ticketmaster.com or by calling 877-250-2929.  Group sales (of 15 or more) are on sale now and available by calling 1-877-536-3437.

Ticket Pricing:
Ticket prices (including the $2 facility fee) range from $62-$99 for previews (March 1-March 21), $62-$142 for performances March 22 onward.

Get the full cast details here.

Click on the links below to read what the critics have to say about the Stratford Shakespeare Festival production’s transfer to La Jolla Playhouse.

Los Angeles Times – Charles McNulty

Variety – Bob Verini

North Country Times – Pam Kragen

San Diego.com – Welton Jones

Backstage – Les Spindle

The San Diego Union-Tribune – James Hebert

San Diego Magazine - Erin Meanley

San Diego Gay and Lesbian News – Jean Lowerison

Today, The Really Useful Group have announced that we are now prepared to consider licence applications for both Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Jesus Christ Superstar from some youth groups in the UK and Eire.

Some restrictions will apply as Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat continues to tour the UK & Eire and we have future plans for professional activity for Jesus Christ Superstar, but the limited release of these two  popular shows follows last month’s addition of The Phantom of the Opera and Cats to our licensing catalogue for academic schools and colleges.

For information about all our shows available for licence, and for details on how to apply, vist our specialist licensing website at www.stageamusical.com.

THE STRATFORD SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL’S PRODUCTION OF ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER AND  TIM RICE’S JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR DIRECTED BY DES MCANUFF 

PREVIEW PERFORMANCES BEGIN MARCH 1, 2012

OPENS MARCH 22, 2012 AT BROADWAY’S NEIL SIMON THEATRE

It was confirmed today that The Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s hit production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, directed by the Festival’s Artistic Director Des McAnuff, will open at the Neil Simon Theatre on Broadway on Thursday, March 22, 2012.  Previews will begin Thursday, March 1, 2012.

Dodger Properties and the Really Useful Group will present the Stratford Shakespeare Festival production of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR.

The production opened in Canada on June 3, 2011 to critical acclaim and will continue there through November 6, 2011.  Following that, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR will play the La Jolla Playhouse November 18, 2011 to December 31, 2011.

The Toronto Globe and Mail raved, “This production is an absolute miracle,” while the Toronto Star called it “the best show you’ll see this year.”

“A sparkling production literally pulsing with life,” wrote the Toronto Sun; and Variety enthused, “McAnuff has managed to come up with a vision that is faithful to the original but manages to make it seem fresh to an audience in 2011.”

For more information, visit www.superstaronbroadway.com.

Follow JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR on Twitter: @SuperstarBway or on Facebook.

Click here to read The Toronto Star review.

Click here to read the Variety review.

Click here to read the Toronto Globe and Mail review.

This Thursday, 4th November, The Culture Show will feature an exclusive interview with Andrew and Tim Rice to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Jesus Christ Superstar concept album. Andrew and Tim are interviewed by Matt Berry, star of The It Crowd and The Mighty Boosh, who considers Jesus Christ Superstar to be the seminal concept album after falling in love with it aged 15.

The interview will give viewers a unique opportunity to hear Andrew and Tim discuss their memories of making the album, and their thoughts on its continuing popularity and significance.

The interview will feature on The Culture Show on BBC 2 at 7pm this Thursday, 4th November.

Read part one of the boys’ Jesus Christ Superstar blog here.

Week Two

Hi – my name is Shane Allison, a Year 13 student at Wellington College, and I’m both the Director of Choreography and Technical Director for our production of Superstar next month.

The two roles are a bit of a mix and not two you’d normally expect to see on the same theatre card but as you might have guessed I have the background to go along with it  Having tried many forms of dance I’ve stuck with Ballet for the last 13 years as well as being heavily involved in the lighting, staging and sound for various productions at  the Brierley, our school theatre where Jesus Christ Superstar will be performed.

With work going on concurrently in both roles it’s important that I have a strong group around to help get the work done. My choreography squad has been amazing and you will be hearing more from Ben Ayto, one of my team soon.

As I’ve said, both roles present unique and interesting challenges. In the Technical Department, we’re currently working on the lighting plan and how to best utilize our 35 or so lights to produce the amazing spectacle that this show demands.

In the Brierley, our biggest difficulty with lighting has been our 24 channel DMX patch board. We’re incredibly lucky that the school invested in a USB to DMX converter box last year and Lightfactory (a New Zealand made program) to control it. This now makes our lighting incredibly simple and easy – we just match click the mouse button at the appropriate moments and voila, our scene changes.

Our production is naturally going to have a major component of Visual Media and this has been particularly frustrating as we have had to work on a solution that enables us to run all of the visuals from our lighting box without degradation of the video stream over 20 meter plus long VGA cords!

With typical Kiwi ingenuity, our solution so far seems to be an odd mix of special HDMI convertors which send signals over Ethernet so we don’t have to spend $600 on cabling and remote desk-topping computers. Hopefully that tech-speak didn’t go over everyone’s head!

Back to choreography and I spent most of my latest Sunday rehearsal working with the cast for the final number “Jesus Christ Superstar” which was challenging as this marks the last big chunk of dance to be taught.

Choreographing for a musical is a new experience for me as the dance does not only have to tell a story by itself:  it also has to match up with lyrics and provide symbolism – and most importantly, all the moves also have to allow the cast to sing!

Although we are certainly faced with a myriad of challenges, we are overcoming these obstacles and are definitely on track for an amazing performance in less than four weeks. Thanks to all who are following our journey and we hope to see some of you there!

Shane Allison, Year 13

In 1976, California Youth Theatre staged a magnificent production of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Santa Barbara County Bowl.  The production starred original motion picture stars Ted Neeley, Carl Anderson and Yvonne Elliman in what was an unforgettable series of performances under the stars.

Now, 30 years later, Ted Neeley and Yvonne Elliman along with other members of the youth theatre family are coming together once more, joined by Barry Dennen, Clint Holmes, Jack Black and a full company of actors, singers, and musicians, to perform in this special concert event, benefiting Youtheatre America, and the Ricardo Montalban Foundation.

Youtheatre America, under the direction of Jack Nakano, has been established to help develop the “Audiences of the Future”, by encouraging creative skills and artisitic expression in youth ages 12 to 21, while fostering a high sense of accomplishment and self esteem, thereby developing a critical, selective and demanding Citizen Audience of the Future.

The Ricardo Montalban Foundation, under the direction of  Jerry Velasco, was established in 1970 by its well-known star namesake of numerous film and television shows, to improve the image of Latinos throughout the Entertainment Industry, to promote employment in front and behind the camera, and to provide education opportunies for Hispanics in the performing arts.

Produced by special arrangement with The Really Useful Group Ltd  and through the courtesy and permision of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, this performance will be a once in a lifetime event, never to be repeated.

Akron Beacon reviews the US Tour

The critically acclaimed Jesus Christ Superstar US tour is enthusiastically endorsed by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice.

When Jesus Christ Superstar first exploded onto the West End stage in 1972, it was clear that the musical world would never be the same again. Almost 30 years on and this astonishing musical is back as fresh and gripping as ever, proving that no musical since has been able to touch audiences with quite the same impact or emotional intensity. Acclaimed as a theatrical masterpiece at the time of its premiere, Jesus Christ Superstar has since attained the status of theatrical legend. From his entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday through to his death at the hands of Pontius Pilate, Jesus Christ Superstar is an epic retelling of the last seven days in the life of Jesus of Nazareth. Telling the story of men and women driven to their fate by forces beyond their control, this unique musical is as powerful and compelling today as the day it was written.

Jesus Christ Superstar is packed with hit songs including “I Don’t Know How To Love Him,” “Could We Start Again Please” and of course, “Superstar.” Fierce rock rhythms, chunky power chords, pulsating tension along with heart searing ballads all combine in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s haunting and unforgettable score.

For this entirely new production, Kevin Moriarty will direct, choreography is by David Wilder – basing both on the direction and choreography by Gale Edwards and Anthony Van Laast, scenic design by Peter J. Davison, costume design by Roger Kirk, lighting design by Mark McCullough and sound design by Jon Gottlieb and Phil Allen. Jesus Christ Superstar is produced by The Really Useful Superstar Company, Inc. and Nederlander Presentations, Inc., in association with Terry Allen Kramer. Executive Producer is Tom McCoy/McCoy Rigby Entertainment.

12th October 1971 should have been the happiest night of my life. I was 23 years old and a fairy tale was about to come true. An unknown British young man was to have his first musical premiered on Broadway. Jesus Christ Superstar was to open on the very same stage as My Fair Lady had played only a decade and a half before.

I shall never forget the saga of Jesus Christ Superstar on Broadway. Never in my opinion was so wrong a production mounted of my work. Even though this brash and vulgar interpretation was quite leniently dealt with by the critics at the time, the public saw through it. The biggest selling double album of all time ran in its first theatre incarnation a mere 20 months.

Throughout its entire preview period I was never allowed to rehearse the orchestra. Looking back 25 years later, I suppose there were pluses. Because the production was so awful, no production of Superstar in the rest of the world was the same, so I had a baptism of fire by a kaleidoscopic gaggle of directors.

Most important, I resolved that night that when I got my first opportunity I would start my own production company. It’s an irony that I’m working with Hal Prince at the moment on the other side of the pond on Whistle Down the Wind whilst Gale Edwards has been creating her production of Superstar here at the Lyceum. For it was Gale who staged Whistle Down the Wind at my annual Sydmonton Festival and as a consequence the project was hijacked from the cinema to the theatre and Hal always wanted to direct Superstar.

Back in 1970, whilst Tim Rice and I were in New York, Hal Prince sent a telegram to my parents’s flat saying he wanted to direct and produce Superstar. I only got it after we had signed the rights away. It read “I am the producer of West Side Story, Fiddler on the Roof and Cabaret. Please advise re. rights of Jesus Christ Superstar“. They were gone. I could have cried. I had two idols, Hal and Richard Rodgers. I still wonder how my career would have been perceived in those early days if he had directed it rather than my theatrical debut being allowed to be turned into a mountain of kitsch that looked like a monument to a demented pastry chef.

I am writing these brochure notes having seen Gale Edwards’s production in preview. She has listened to everything I told her. I introduced her to John Napier and we had a thrilling evening discussing which painting we felt might be closest to a new production of the piece. We unanimously came down on Holbein’s astonishing, timeless and horrifying The Dead Christ in the Tomb in the Kunstmuseum Basel, Switzerland.

We also felt that even if the idea of a “rock opera” sounds like a late 1960′s timewarp, I should not change any of the music. In fact the only change is in the orchestration of the final scene because I felt, in preview, that it had to be stripped to its bare bones.

I am immensely proud of Gale Edwards and what she has achieved with her virtually unknown cast. She spent a year auditioning over 1,200 actors to arrive at the performers you see and hear tonight.

Warts and all, it’s wonderful for me to see the old baby directed and produced in the manner that I had hoped would have marked my Broadway debut.

Andrew Lloyd Webber