Photo Flash: First Glimpse of the New JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR UK Arena Tour; Now Set for 21 Dates in 12 Arenas!

Andrew Lloyd Webber's new production of Jesus Christ Superstar, directed by Laurence Connor, promises to be the rock event of the year as Tim Minchin (Judas Iscariot) and Ben Forster (Jesus) began rehearsals at a secret location in London this week. The first image of the highly contemporary production has today been revealed – complete with riot police who feature heavily in the opening sequence of the new rock musical production.

Andrew Lloyd Webber said: "Even the hardened rockers in our cast were taken aback by how cutting edge Laurence's vision for the show is.  This is the first ever arena tour of Jesus Christ Superstar in the UK and he is creating something quite extraordinary. Like the Olympics we're not giving anything away but I promise that you won't have seen a production of any of my shows quite like this!"

Demand has been so great for the arena tour that six new dates have been added since tickets went on sale.  Jesus Christ Superstar will now play 21 dates in 12 different locations across the UK and Ireland – including a fifth London date at Wembley Arena on 17 October.

The tour opens at London's O2 on 21 September and culminates at Sheffield's Motorpoint on 21 October.

Advance ticket sales have already topped £6 million and a record-breaking 74,000 people will see the show in its opening week alone.

An award-winning creative team have been assembled to transform this legendary rock musical into a unique state-of-the-art spectacular. Director Laurence Connor, known for his work on the 25^th anniversary performances and concerts for Les Miserables and Phantom of the Opera, will work alongside Mark Fisher, the acclaimed world-leading set designer responsible for the staging for the Diamond Jubilee music concert in front of Buckingham Palace. They will be joined by internationally acclaimed lighting designer Patrick Woodroffe, who worked on the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the London 2012 Olympic Games.  Both Mark and Patrick have worked on global arena and stadium tours for some of the world's biggest music acts including the Rolling Stones and U2.

For a full list of venues to how to book click here