It’s turning into a busy year for Mel C, what with the Spice Girls musical opening later this year and now Superstar on ITV1. Andrew Lloyd Webber is hunting for a leading man for his legendary rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar, which starts an arena tour in September, and as well as being a judge/mentor on the TV show, Mel has also been cast as Mary Magdalene. TV Choice caught up with her during a break in her hectic schedule…

What appealed about doing Superstar?
I love Jesus Christ Superstar, I think it’s different to anything else Andrew Lloyd Webber has done. To be involved in the arena tour is amazing because I think it’s quite ground-breaking. It’s going to be very spectacular and it kind of takes musical theatre to another level.

I didn’t know I was going to be in the show when I was asked to take part in the TV programme. The TV side is really exciting because it’s something I’ve never done before, but as a performer it’s much more fulfilling to be part of the production.

You were nominated for an Olivier Award for your performance in Blood Brothers, is it exciting to be back in another musical?
It was something I loved as a child. I actually went to a performing arts college after I left school, so it was something I was hoping to go into as a career. But my ultimate dream was to be a pop star and I got in this band called the Spice Girls and that took up most of my time. So it’s come full circle, I’ve come back to where I began as a performer.

Landing the role of Jesus really will change someone’s life over night.
Yes and I think that’s what sets Andrew’s TV shows apart, because a lot of finalists have gone on to very successful careers in the theatre. It really is giving these talented young performers a career. Having worked in both the music and theatre business I can see the differences. In theatre, if you are good at something then opportunities will come your way. Whereas in music, you may be good at something, but you’re only as good as your last album.

What were you looking for in the auditions?
A very strong vocal, great acting ability and a real charisma. In the auditions we had people with no experience, people who had worked in amateur productions, and also very experienced performers who play leading roles in the West End, so it was a real mix and the standard was very high.

ITV1, Saturday & Sunday

Mary Comerford

The Jesus Christ Superstar arena tour starts on Friday, 21 September.
21 September London O2 Arena (SOLD OUT)
22 September London O2 Arena
25 September Glasgow SECC
28 September Newcastle Metro Radio Arena
30 September Manchester Arena
2 October Cardiff Motorpoint
4 October Birmingham NIA
9 October Belfast Odyssey
12 October Dublin O2
16 October Liverpool Echo Arena
19 October Nottingham Capital FM Arena
21 October Sheffield Motorpoint
Get your tickets here