Jason Donovan and Mel C to assist Jesus Christ Superstar Auditions

Andrew Lloyd Webber is on the look out for a new Jesus Christ Superstar when he launches his new TV show later this year. He has just revealed that Jason Donovan and former Spice Girl Melanie Chisholm are to assist him in the selection process.

Mel C and Jason will work with West End casting supremo David Grindrod during the callbacks which are taking place over the next three days when the best contenders are whittled down to a final 40 who will then undergo intensive training sessions before a winner is eventually picked.

But while the two stars will be helping during the initial stages, Lord Lloyd Webber is yet to announce who will be on the judging panel on the live shows. Previous judges include Charlotte Church, John Barrowman, Bill Kenwright, Barry Humphries and Denise Van Outen.

Jason has previously worked with the Lord when he appeared in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Other stage highlights include The Rocky Horror Show, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert to name a few. 

Mel C has appeared in Blood Brothers in London's West End and offered advice to contestants who auditioned for the role of Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz.

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.”