An actor who made his first foray into musical theatre in Norfolk plays the title role in an award-winning musical heading to Norwich.

Ian McIntosh stars as Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar, which will be at Norwich Theatre Royal from April 8 to 13 2024.

Featuring music and lyrics by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, this reimagined production, first performed at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre in London, won an Olivier Award in 2017 for best musical revival.

Norwich Evening News: Ian McIntosh stars as Jesus in Jesus Christ SuperstarIan McIntosh stars as Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar (Image: Supplied)

The show is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks of the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas.

It features songs such as I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Gethsemane and Superstar.

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For McIntosh, he is particularly excited for the Norwich run as he has strong links to Norfolk, with Potters Resort in Hopton-on-Sea his "second home" growing up and he has family living in the area.

Norwich Evening News: Jesus Christ Superstar, starring Ian McIntosh in the title role, is coming to Norwich Jesus Christ Superstar, starring Ian McIntosh in the title role, is coming to Norwich (Image: Mayflower Theatre)

He said: "I was born in Coventry but I went to Potters every summer holiday as my uncle worked and still works there.

"I learnt how to sing at Potters and I started out doing talent competitions and then did the daytime shows and then the evening ones when I was 18." 

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He has gone on to star in West End and major touring productions of shows such as We Will Rock You and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.

Norwich Evening News: Ian McIntosh, pictured here in Jesus Christ Superstar, learnt to sing at Potters ResortIan McIntosh, pictured here in Jesus Christ Superstar, learnt to sing at Potters Resort (Image: Ian McIntosh in Jesus Christ Superstar (Image: free))

Speaking about Jesus Christ Superstar, he added: "I have been in this business for 15 years and there has not been a performance of this show without a standing ovation.

"This role is an amazing gift for me and I can’t believe that I am playing Jesus.

"I remember aged 18 thinking anyone who can sing that part must be incredible."

Book tickets at norwichtheatre.org or call 01603 630000.