Super DJ in Superstar

Theatre Breaks News: Super DJ in Superstar

Super DJ in Superstar
So what’s the buzz? Tell me what’s happening?

Set to star in the new Jesus Christ Superstar UK Arena Tour 2012 is Radio 1 DJ Chris Moyles as King Herrod, former Spice Girl Melanie Chisholm as Mary Magdelene and award winning musician & lyricist Tim Minchin as Judas Iscariot. Releasing the casting news today has certainly got everyone talking and that can only mean sell-out arenas and a great atmosphere.
 
There’s nothing like announcing a controversial casting to get a show’s tickets pre-sales go ballistic! And so it was that Andrew Lloyd Webber took on the brave (genius?) step of offering the role of King Herrod to Radio 1 morning DJ Chris Moyles. Now, I remember him being not a bad singer when he took part in the Celebrity X-Factor programme a few years ago – he can certainly carry a tune. And let’s face it the part of Herrod is a one-song-get-the-audience-up-and-dancing-in-the-aisles kind of cameo. Chris Moyles wouldn’t even have to be ready for the "half hour call" back stage!

On the other hand, we know from past experience that Melanie Chisholm can belt out a number. She was the main singer on most of the Spice Girls singles and showed her rock chick side when he partnered Bryan Adams for number 1 record "When You’re Gone". Last year she was applauded by the plaudits for her role as Mrs Johnson in long-running London musical Blood Brothers. I saw her – and she wasn’t half bad. I’m getting goosebumps just thinking about her rendition of "I Don’t Know How to Love Him" when she plays Mary Magdelene later this year.

Then there’s Tim Minchin. What can I say? Over the last 18 months I was conceded to unabashed admiration for the comedian from Down Under – before thinking that he was a bit weird. But he’s’ not – he’s genius. I am so in love with his music and lyrics for the marvelous magical Matilda the Musical that I’ve been to see it 3 times already. We know that this award winner can sing and he’s certainly a formidable musician, so I have no doubt that he will do justice to the part of tortured soul Judas Iscariot.

Finally, the search for Christ. Many would say we have been searching for centuries, but Andrew Lloyd Webber and ITV believe he is out there and he can be found! The lead role of Jesus will be chosen through a televised audition reality show process and voted for by the paying public.

Jesus Christ Superstar UK Arena Tour will kick off at London’s O2 Arena on 12th September and tour around major UK cities over the Autumn.

Watch this space for news on Jesus Christ Superstar theatre break packages.

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