Andrew Lloyd Webber's 'Superstar' auditions: First Look - pictures

Published Jul 3 2012, 14:25 BST | By Alex Fletcher

Andrew Lloyd Webber's hunt for a new Jesus Christ Superstar launches on ITV1 this week with the first auditions show airing on Saturday night.

The West End producer will be joined during the series by Dawn French, Mel C, David Grindrod and Jason Donovan as he attempts to find a lead for his revival of the classic rock opera.

Superstar Episode 1: The judges on Osea Island

"Presenting a new 2012 version of Jesus Christ Superstar for arenas is truly exciting. Some of the best performances of this show have been in rock venues and I'm thrilled to see the show return to its roots. ITV is providing the perfect platform for us to find a new, British Superstar," said Webber.

Webber previously worked with the BBC on TV talent shows casting for productions of the Sound of Music, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Oliver! and The Wizard of Oz.

Hosted by Amanda Holden, the auditions for Superstar launch this Saturday (July 7) at 7.25pm on ITV1.

Chris Moyles, Mel C and Tim Minchin have all signed up for parts in the Superstar arena tour, which will start on September 21.

Watch the trailer for Superstar: