Comedian Tim Minchin, former Spice Girl Melanie C and BBC Radio 1 presenter Chris Moyles will star in Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s forthcoming arena tour of Jesus Christ Superstar.
The musical theatre duo’s legendary rock musical is currently set to play eight dates across the UK, kicking off the tour in London at the O2 Arena on 21 September.
Celebrating 40 years since the show first opened in the West End at the Palace theatre, Jesus Christ Superstar is based on the Gospels’ story of the last weeks of Jesus Christ’s life and features hit songs including I Don’t Know How To Love Him, Everything’s Alright, Superstar and King Herod’s Song.
The multi-million album-selling pop singer and former Blood Brothers star Melanie C will lead the cast as Mary Magdalene. Moyles will make his musical stage debut as King Herod, while Matilda The Musical’s composer Minchin will play Judas Iscariot.
Who will take on the imposing task of portraying Jesus on stage will be decided on ITV’s forthcoming reality talent show Superstar, following in the footsteps of other televised musical star searches I’d Do Anything, Over The Rainbow and Grease Is The Word.
Lloyd Webber will be joined on the judging panel by Melanie C and former Priscilla Queen Of The Desert The Musical star Jason Donovan. Speaking about her role as judge, Melanie C said: “I’m a huge fan of Andrew’s incredible work over the years. I am honoured and excited to work alongside him helping to find a performer with the raw talent and charisma to play the title role of Jesus.”
Tickets for Jesus Christ Superstar go on sale on Friday 18 May at 09:00.