Superstar Moments: Mahalia Barnes on Passion, Pressure and Performance

Mahalia Barnes reflects on a life steeped in music, from her formative years growing up in a legendary Australian music family to her bold leap into musical theatre with Jesus Christ Superstar. With no formal training but an unshakable passion for soul and blues, she carved out a distinct artistic voice grounded in authenticity, collaboration and emotional connection. Mahalia speaks candidly about the pressures of legacy, the discipline of theatre, and the joy of live performance, offering a rare and honest glimpse into the evolving journey of a performer who remains deeply committed to her craft and true to her sound.

🎭 Jesus Christ Superstar 
🗓️ now playing in Melbourne’s Princess Theatre, then QPAC Brisbane from 22 June
🎟️jesuschristsuperstarmusical.com.au

The 2025 Australian touring production of Jesus Christ Superstar is delivering a thrilling reimagining of the iconic rock opera to audiences around the country. Based on the acclaimed Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre staging, this bold and contemporary version features a standout cast including Michael Paynter as Jesus, Javon King as Judas, Mahalia Barnes as Mary Magdalene, and Peter Murphy as Pilate. With direction by Timothy Sheader and choreography by Drew McOnie, the production brings concert-like intensity to the stage while honouring the timeless score by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Audiences are treated to powerful renditions of songs like I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Gethsemane and Superstar, with raw emotion and vocal brilliance on full display. After its Melbourne season at the Princess Theatre concludes on 22 June, the production will head to Brisbane and Perth, continuing to captivate theatregoers with its high energy and emotional impact.

 

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MAHALIA BARNES is one of Australia’s most powerful and authentic vocalists, known for her commanding voice, soulful style and raw emotional honesty on stage. The daughter of iconic rock singer Jimmy Barnes, Mahalia grew up surrounded by music, touring and performing from a young age. Rather than resting on her family name, she forged her own path, developing a distinctive sound rooted in blues, soul and gospel influences.

Without formal vocal training, Mahalia refined her voice through years of passionate self-practice, drawing inspiration from artists like Lorraine Ellison and Aretha Franklin. Her career has spanned multiple solo albums, international collaborations, and countless live performances that showcase her deep musicality and connection with audiences.

In recent years, Mahalia has expanded into musical theatre, making her debut as Mary in Jesus Christ Superstar, a role that challenged and inspired her in new creative ways. Whether on stage with her band or in a theatrical production, she brings honesty, energy and an unmistakable voice that sets her apart.

Beyond her work as a performer, Mahalia is a dedicated collaborator and mentor within the music community, committed to creating meaningful experiences through music and staying true to the artistry that has defined her journey.