Cast announced for Australian premiere production of Green Day’s American Idiot musical

Rock stars and triple threats abound in the cast for Green Day’s American Idiot, the musical that took Broadway by storm. The Australian premiere season is exclusively at Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) from 23 February 2017. And it’s going to be loud.

In the role of St Jimmy (played on Broadway from everyone to Billie Joe Armstrong to Melissa Etheridge) we have two Australian greats: Chris Cheney, lead guitar and vocals for The Living End, and Phil Jamieson, the frontman for Grinspoon.

Featured roles will be played by Ben Bennett (Johnny), Cameron MacDonald (Tunny), Alex Jeans (Will), Phoebe Panaretos (Whatsername), Rowena Vilar (Extraordinary Girl), and Ashleigh Barlow (Heather).

Rounding out the ensemble are Kurt Phelan, Madison Green, Christopher Scalzo, Nicholas Kyriacou, and Lorinda Merrypor.

American Idiot takes the award-winning Green Day concept album of the stage and focuses on three friends trying to survive a post 9/11 America. One friend enters the military, one tries to settle down, and another falls in love — well, sort of.

It features every song from Green Day’s American Idiot as well as several songs from their follow-up release, 21st Century Breakdown. New musical arrangements by Tom Kitt give the music an extra theatricality.

Nick Skubij, Artistic Director, shake & stir theatre co said he is thrilled to announce the amazing line up of Australian artists secured for the national premiere of Green Day’s American Idiot.

“We had over 600 people from across the nation audition for parts and believe we have on board a collection of the most authentic and talented performers. Who better to portray this electric story than actual rock stars themselves?

“We are stoked to have two iconic Australian band front men, Chris Cheney and Phil Jamieson, along with a hugely talented group of young musical theatre stars and an acclaimed creative team,” he said.

American Idiot is exclusive to QPAC, Brisbane from 23 February 2017. Don’t miss this award winning rock musical as QPAC’s Playhouse is transformed into a grungy mosh pit. Tickets on sale now via qpac.com.au or call 136 246.