Voices of Power: Meet the Soul Singers of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR!
Created by the legendary team of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, Jesus Christ Superstar broke new ground as a rock opera, retelling the final days of Jesus through the perspectives of those around him, notably Judas. The musical’s high-energy rock score, combined with its innovative take on iconic biblical figures, made it a cultural phenomenon that continues to resonate more than five decades later.
The current Australian tour brings a fresh vision of the show, adopting the acclaimed Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production from the UK. Directed by Timothy Sheader and choreographed by Drew McOnie, this adaptation is notable for its raw, contemporary staging and electrifying choreography. The minimalist aesthetic, combined with a powerful vocal and physical ensemble, creates an intense, almost concert-like experience, placing audiences right in the heart of the story.
One of the most striking features of this production are the soul singers – three powerhouse vocalists who bring energy, emotion, and a fresh vocal texture to the show. This talented trio consists of Calista Nelmes, Stellar Perry, and Danielle Matthews, each with unique journeys that have led them to the Superstar stage.
Calista hails from New Zealand and has quickly become a recognised name in the Australian music and theatre scenes. A graduate of NIDA, Calista first dazzled audiences as Lorraine in Jersey Boys and made waves as a top 12 contestant on The Voice in 2023. Her recent portrayal of Maureen in Rent earned her rave reviews and a nomination for the Best Performance in a Musical at the 2024 Time Out Arts and Culture Awards.
Stellar made her mark on Australian television with The Voice and other national competitions. Known for her authenticity and soulful sound, Stellar has a rich career as a singer-songwriter and a globetrotting performer. Her recent shift to musical theatre saw her portray Oberon in The Lovers and Magenta in The Rocky Horror Show’s 50th anniversary tour.
Danielle is known for her versatility as a singer and cabaret artist, with accolades including the inaugural Rob Guest Endowment Award. Her career spans from musical theatre, where she starred in shows like Urinetown and Showboat, to solo performances paying tribute to Shirley Bassey. A popular online entertainer during the pandemic, Danielle has also contributed her voice to major video game soundtracks and serves as Co-Artistic Director of the Choir of Hard Knocks.
How did you first become involved with Jesus Christ Superstar, and what was your reaction when you got the role?
Calista: It’s my dads favorite musical theatre album so naturally I grew up with bits of it but I during my research for RENT I read a lot about how the JCS album record inspired Johnathan Larson to write the next modern rock opera, and I ended up down a rabbit hole of how it changed and influenced so many other artists and music genres. So when the brief came out I just had to be a part of this musical that inspired such a huge change in the music industry.
When I got the role I was slightly in disbelief to be honest, friends had already gotten offers so I had begun to let it go and then my agent called me later that night!
Stellar: I played Magenta in Rocky Horror and loved working for Crossroads and the entire team, when I heard they were producing JCS, I auditioned. I was in LA when I got the email and was absolutely stoked to play soul singer and be a Mary cover.
Danielle: When I saw what a fantastic Australian creative team was involved I knew I wanted to audition. The show is also a favorite of my mums and that meant something to me. I was recovering from gall bladder surgery in the audition process and didn’t know if I could dance. But the team were so supportive and gave me time. But because of that I was very surprised when I found out I’d booked it!
How does Jesus Christ Superstar compare to other shows you’ve done? Are there specific elements that make it unique as a performer?
Calista: This specific version of JCS is for Triple Threats with a capital T. The score is probably one of the most intricate and detailed scores I’ve had to learn in my career and when you pair that with Drew Mcconies choreography, it’s not for the faint of heart. But it is so rewarding when they come together, and this cast has some of the most talented people in Australia (and let’s be real, the world) so couldn’t think of a better group of people to perform this marathon of a show.
Stellar: It is my first opportunity to be in an ensemble and cover a role so I’m really excited and grateful to grow and learn.
Danielle: It’s not like anything I’ve ever done . It’s vocally, physically and mentally more demanding than anything I’ve ever done before. The show really pushes the limits of what is possible. It will will be absolutely wild to watch!
Do you have a favourite moment or scene in the show, whether you’re involved in it or not?
Calista: I’m not joking in the slightest, anytime Javon sings anything.
Stellar: Paynter’s high notes in “Gesthemene” and Darcey who played the mob leader cutting sick before Judas’ death. Also Clay dancing towards me when I’m on the cross singing during “Simon Zealots”. The ensemble are GOING SO HARD! It’s pure brilliance.
Danielle: I love singing in everything’s alright with Mahalia and the other soul Girls. The movement is beautiful, feminine and lush as is the vocal line. We get to breathe together as one and slow down for a beautiful moment in a show that is for the most part fast paced, loud and big!
Vocally, what are some of the most challenging or rewarding parts of the score for you?
Calista: We go from belting like rockstars to hitting high C’s like Opera singers which I suppose is expected in something called a “rock opera”, it’s definitely a challenge, but it reminds me how multi faceted a performer has to be and it’s very rewarding when you manage to nail it.
Stellar: Temple. Hands down. Where do I breathe?! Answer, ya don’t. RIP me.
Danielle: The entirety honestly ! It’s a vocal marathon. The Mt Everest of scores. A lot of it whilst you’re throwing yourself around in vigorous movement. There are songs that I am jumping 3 octaves with only a few bars in-between. For me the most rewarding is
What advice would you give to someone who dreams of performing on stage, especially in such vocally demanding roles?
Calista: Trust the process. You’re not going to be picture perfect on day 1 of rehearsals, that time is for mistakes and imperfections.
Don’t compare yourself to others, everyone has a different learning process, don’t twist yourself into knots to fit a mould that doesn’t work for you. Great artists are always proud individuals, lean into what makes you different.
Stellar: Don’t dream it, be it. Take classes, meet people. You’re only growing when you’re uncomfortable so make friends with that feeling.
Danielle: Just to take care of yourself. Wholisticly. Look after your body. Your voice . Nurture you mental health . When the work is demanding you need to be coming from the strongest place you can be. Know your boundaries as an artist, look at what is being required of you and find the best path forward with the support of those around you so you can have a positive, safe and sustainable experience doing 8 shows a week.
Can you summarise the show in 3 words?
Calista: For Ever Amen!!!!
Stellar: Poetry in motion.
Danielle: Wild, overwhelming, transcendent.
Jesus Christ Superstar is now playing in Sydney, and will be touring to Perth, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
For tickets and more information, visit jesuschristsuperstarmusical.com.au
