Category: THEATRE

Limbo The Return: a highlight of Sydney theatre

Limbo performance theatre

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Posted: 15/03/2024

Welcome to a circus spectacle of otherworldly proportions, “LIMBO The Return” is the exhilarating new headline show captivating audiences at The Grand Electric, the hottest venue in town. This acclaimed production marries the thrilling essence of live circus, cabaret, and acrobatics with the heart-pounding live music composed by New York’s own Jank master, Sxip Shirey. Set in a realm delicately balanced between heaven and hell, “LIMBO The Return” showcases an international ensemble of top-tier circus performers and musicians, creating an experience that transcends the ordinary. Having spellbound crowds in Spiegeltents across Newcastle and Adelaide, “LIMBO The Return” now sets its sights on Sydney for its headline season. The show has been embraced with open arms, drawing in audiences eager to witness its jaw-dropping, fire-breathing, and gravity-defying acts. Critics, too, have been fervently enthusiastic, with Upside Adelaide awarding the show a five-star review, lauding it as “a whirlwind of excitement and wonder… that will leave you wanting more.” Elsewhere, See Do Eat Review echoed this acclaim in their own five-star praise, highlighting the band as “musical geniuses” and heralding the show as their “favourite show of the Fringe”. More than a decade ago, the original LIMBO production propelled its creators, Strut & Fret, onto the global stage. After selling out at the Sydney Festival, it embarked on an international tour gracing stages from Brussels to Bogota. The show even captivated Madonna, who attended twice during its London season. Its follow-up, “LIMBO Unhinged,” enjoyed a hugely successful and critically acclaimed run at the Sydney Opera House, before… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, SYDNEY, THEATRE

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Review: Wicked at the Regent Theatre Melbourne

Wicked Australia

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Posted: 14/03/2024

In an era where the fantastical often mirrors the stark realities of our world, Wicked, the beloved musical, draws thousands into its emerald allure yet again, proving its timeless relevance and enchanting allure. Its latest revival in Melbourne, commemorating the 20th anniversary of its Broadway debut, prompts the perennial question: Does Wicked continue to cast its spell over audiences, or is its magic waning? From the moment you step into the opulent ambiance of the Regent Theatre, it’s clear that Wicked hasn’t lost an iota of its charm or vibrancy. The production, with its slick costumes, precise choreography, and larger-than-life sets, remains a testament to the creative ingenuity behind this spellbinding musical. Yet, it’s not the spectacle alone that keeps audiences riveted; it’s the effervescent energy and unparalleled talent of the cast that breathe new life into the familiar tale. Courtney Monsma’s portrayal of Glinda is nothing short of spectacular, infusing the character with a delightful mix of humor, warmth, and depth. Her interaction with Sheridan Adams’ Elphaba, whose vocal prowess and emotional range anchor the show, makes for a compelling narrative of friendship, rivalry, and redemption. Together, their performances not only captivate but also elevate the material, making every note of “Defying Gravity” resonate with a fresh sense of urgency and inspiration. While the production eloquently showcases the dazzling spectacle that fans expect, it’s the underlying themes of social justice, acceptance, and the consequences of ambition that give Wicked its lasting appeal. The musical deftly navigates these complex issues, making it as much a… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, MELBOURNE, THEATRE

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And Juliet musical comes to Sydney

Lorinda May Merrypor plays Juliet in JULIET pic Eugene Hyland 3

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Posted: 26/02/2024

The theatrical world is abuzz as the smash hit musical & JULIET prepares to captivate Sydney audiences, with preview performances igniting the stage from 27 February. This critically acclaimed production has already taken Melbourne, Singapore, and Perth by storm — eliciting praise such as “heart-blowing, transformative & irresistible” (The Australian) and being hailed as “triumphant” with a “uniformly brilliant” cast (News.com.au). Heralded for a performance that could only be described as “jaw-droppingly good” by ABC Radio Melbourne, Lorinda May Merrypor shines in the iconic role of Juliet. Joined by Rob Mills – Australian music veteran as the whimsical Shakespeare – and an ensemble of stellar talent including music theatre icon Amy Lehpamer, chart-topping Casey Donovan, and the versatile Hayden Tee, & JULIET’s Australian production promises an unrivaled theatrical experience. The jubilant legacy of & JULIET is set to expand as tickets fly off the virtual shelves of Ticketmaster, with shows slated through to 2 June. As the narrative saunters into Sydney’s vibrant cultural scene, Lorinda May Merrypor shares her enthusiasm: “It is such a joy to share the story of & JULIET with even more people in Sydney. We cannot wait to be back on the stage, singing and dancing with everyone each night!” Reinventing the narrative of one of literature’s most tragic heroines, & JULIET offers an alternative tale where Juliet’s poignant end is merely the beginning of a riveting journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The musical’s heart pulsates through a soundtrack of Max Martin’s pop anthems, earning it nine Tony Award® nominations, including… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, SYDNEY, THEATRE

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Moulin Rouge! The Musical in Melbourne

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Updated: 16/02/2024

Can can can they capture the Absinthe fairy magic as the Luhrmann-inspired jukebox musical returns to Melbourne? As the multiple Tony Award-winning Moulin Rouge! The Musical makes its grand encore at the majestic Regent Theatre, it’s an experience that transcends mere entertainment. Adapted from Baz Luhrmann’s iconic 2001 film, this theatrical extravaganza has once again captured the hearts of audiences, reigniting the magic of maximal musical nostalgia in a way that only the Moulin Rouge can. The visual spectacle is unparalleled, with Derek McLane’s dazzling scenic design creating an immersive world that spills off the stage and through the fourth wall. The already-majestic Regent Theatre radiates the red light district glow of hand-painted bulbs, transporting the audience back in time to the infamous Parisian club’s heyday with a touch of actual Absinthe fairy magic. Returning stars Alinta Chidzey and Des Flanagan shine even brighter in their roles as the rags-to-riches courtesan Satine and her penniless suitor Christian. Their kilowatt chemistry illuminates the show, bringing to life the 70-plus tunes woven into this jam-packed jukebox musical with remarkable grace. Their vocal prowess, combined with the demanding choreography and magnificent costumes, creates a mesmerizing experience for all in attendance. The intricately stitched orchestration, under the command of Australian musical director Matthew Carey, seamlessly weaves iconic songs into the narrative, adding layers of depth and emotion to the performance. From Beyoncé’s ‘Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)’ paired with Lorde’s ‘Royals’ to Elton John’s ‘Your Song’ and Dolly Parton’s ‘I Will Always Love You’, the musical tapestry… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, MELBOURNE, THEATRE

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Elixir Festival is on at Sadler’s Wells

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Posted: 16/02/2024

This April, Sadler’s Wells becomes the beating heart of a unique celebration with the return of its much-anticipated Elixir Festival. Over two transformative weeks, the festival will dismantle the preconceptions surrounding dance and age, featuring a blend of performances, workshops, artist talks, and films. With its bold programme, Elixir poses a potent question to the public and the dance community alike: how do we articulate the evolution of our bodies and minds through the art of movement? The festival commences with a triple bill in the esteemed Sadler’s Wells Theatre, including the London premiere of the co-produced common ground[s], a profound duet by Germaine Acogny—often hailed as the ‘mother of contemporary African dance’—and Pina Bausch’s acclaimed associate, Malou Airaudo. This opening act sets the festival’s tone, promising a series of captivating narratives that speak to the essence of our shared human experience. Moreover, the roster features the world premiere of Ben Duke’s whimsically titled a trio for two dancers and a tortoise and concludes with Louise Lecavalier’s Blue, distilling the essence of her acclaimed piece, So Blue, into a striking solo performance. Adjacent to the main stage, the intimate Lilian Baylis Studio will host an exchange of talent and tales between Sadler’s Wells Company of Elders and ZooNation Youth Company. The studio will reverberate with the timeless rhythms of Merce Cunningham’s Story, reflecting the festival’s overarching theme of generational dialogue, while intergenerational duets and intimate explorations into the perspectives on ageing bodies will inject personal narratives into the festival’s artistic discourse. A vibrant contrast to… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, LONDON, THEATRE

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Groundhog Day on stage in Melbourne

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Updated: 16/02/2024

“Groundhog Day” at the Princess Theatre in Melbourne is a theatrical tour de force that defies the expected pitfalls of film-to-stage adaptations with aplomb. Touted as ‘Matilda for grown-ups’, this musical delves into its existential premise with both hands, pulling out themes of despair and redemption that resonate profoundly within its audience. The narrative arc of the show, much like its temporal loops, spirals deeper into the psyche, exploring the limits of personal growth amidst a backdrop of absurdity and routine. The ensemble cast, led by the stellar Andy Karl, enlivens the small Pennsylvanian town with performances pitched perfectly between the whimsical and the profound. Karl’s Phil Connors is an anti-hero for the ages, evincing a spectrum of emotion that endears as much as it repels. Elise McCann’s Rita, with her stirring rendition of ‘One Day’, provides a foil to Phil that is both grounding and aspirational, ensuring the production’s emotional beats are both earned and impactful. Genius stagecraft coupled with Tim Minchin’s razor-sharp lyrics elevates the commonplace into a commentary on life’s cyclical nature. Repetition here is not redundant but revelatory, offering the audience new insights with each iteration— a testament to the narrative and thematic depth carved by Danny Rubin’s book. The meticulous play with props and set design, particularly in scenes such as the ‘Hope’ number, exemplifies the ingenuity at work. Ending on notes that evoke both introspection and uproarious applause, “Groundhog Day” is a triumph in storytelling that is unabashedly comedic yet profoundly human. Its success with local audiences and the… Read More

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE, THEATRE

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Experience mesmerising Miss Saigon before it closes 16 December!

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Posted: 10/12/2023

Brace yourself for a truly extraordinary love story that has captivated audiences and garnered rave reviews. Don’t miss your chance to witness the breathtaking Australian production of Miss Saigon before its final performance at Her Majesty’s Theatre on Saturday, 16 December. Critics and fans alike have been swept away by this mesmerizing theatrical experience, praising its “hugely talented cast” and deeming it “as powerful and affecting as ever.” Produced by the legendary Cameron Mackintosh, this production of Boublil and Schönberg’s award-winning musical is a must-see event. Taking center stage is the internationally acclaimed performer Seann Miley Moore in the role of The Engineer, alongside the talented Abigail Adriano as Kim and Nigel Huckle as Chris. The stellar cast also features Kerrie Anne Greenland as Ellen, Nick Afoa as John, Laurence Mossman as Thuy, and Kimberley Hodgson as Gigi. Together, they bring depth and emotion to the captivating story. Prepare to be enchanted by the full 24-piece orchestra, which breathes life into the soaring musical score created by the renowned duo behind Les Misérables. From the powerful anthems like “The Heat is On in Saigon” and “Last Night of the World” to the unforgettable melodies of “The Movie in My Mind” and “The American Dream,” the music will transport you to another world. Since its premiere on the West End, Miss Saigon has garnered an impressive 70 major theatre awards, including three Tonys and two Oliviers. It has been performed in 15 different languages, captivating audiences in over 32 countries and 350 cities worldwide. Set against… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, MELBOURNE, THEATRE

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All about Miss Saigon in Melbourne – see it now

9. The Australian production of Miss Saigon Photo by Daniel Boud

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Posted: 04/11/2023

Melbourne theatre-goers are in for an absolute treat as Cameron Mackintosh’s latest production of the award-winning musical, Miss Saigon, graces the stage of Her Majesty’s Theatre for a fleeting 7-week stint. The return of this heart-wrenching tale comes after a resoundingly successful Sydney season, and a 16-year hiatus since Miss Saigon last enthralled Melbourne audiences on the very same stage. Boasting a resplendent full 24-piece orchestra and an exceptional cast of 42 representing the length and breadth of the Asia-Pacific, this is a revival that is bound to take your breath away. Leading the standout Australian ensemble with aplomb is the internationally acclaimed Seann Miley Moore, who brings an electrifying performance in the role of The Engineer. Fresh-faced talent Abigail Adriano and Nigel Huckle as Chris make a formidable pair and, together with a supporting cast that includes the likes of Kerrie Anne Greenland, Nick Afoa, and Kimberley Hodgson, infuse new life into this timeless classic. Miss Saigon is a tale of love, loss, and resilience in the backdrop of war, and is set to a captivating score by Boublil and Schönberg that includes classics such as ‘The Heat is On in Saigon’ and ‘The American Dream.’ Since its premiere, this epic production has garnered an impressive 70 major theatre awards and has been performed in 15 languages across 350 cities worldwide. The reception to this rendition has been nothing short of ecstatic, with The Daily Telegraph calling it “thrilling,” and The Daily Mail dubbing it “the greatest musical of all time.” Don’t miss out… Read More

Category: CITIES, ARTS & CULTURE, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE, THEATRE

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MAMMA MIA hits Melbourne: spectacular celebration of love, laughter and friendship

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Posted: 08/10/2023

The global musical phenomenon, MAMMA MIA! The Musical, has taken its final bow on the Australian tour, leaving an indelible mark on audiences with its vibrant energy, infectious tunes, and heartwarming narrative. The iconic ABBA hit songs had audiences dancing in the aisles from Sydney to Brisbane, and now, Melbourne’s Princess Theatre has been painted with the same vivacious colours of joy and nostalgia. Elise McCann, donning the platforms as the Dynamos lead singer, Donna Sheridan, delivers a captivating performance that leaves audiences spellbound. McCann’s theatre career shines brightly in her portrayal, cementing her status as one of Australia’s finest stage talents. Emerging Australian actor Sarah Krndija steps into the shoes of Donna’s daughter and bride-to-be, Sophie. With her recent roles in 9 to 5 The Musical and Friends The Musical Parody, Krndija brings a fresh and exciting perspective to the role. The dynamite duo of Bianca Bruce and Deone Zanotto complete the Dynamo trio, providing the perfect counterbalance to McCann’s Donna. Their camaraderie is palpable, and their performances are filled with vivacity and charm. Martin Crewes, Drew Livingston, and Tim Wright bring to life the three unsuspecting fathers with aplomb, each contributing their unique flair to the whimsical story. Lewis Francis, as Sophie’s adoring fiancé Sky, showcases his talent with a tender and engaging performance. Newcomers Nina Carmen and Kadesa Honeyhill, along with Jordan Tomljenovic and Etuate Lutui, add an extra layer of verve to the ensemble. The supporting cast, too numerous to name individually, all contribute to the overall success of the show… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, MELBOURNE, THEATRE

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Cinderella on stage is coming to Sydney!

Santino Fontana and Laura Osnes Original Broadway Production of CINDERELLA (c) Carol Rosegg

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Updated: 11/04/2021

Opera Australia and the Gordon Frost Organisation are teaming up to bring us the Rogers & Hammerstein masterpiece Cinderella on stage in Sydney this year. Continuing their wildly successful collaboration of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s timeless musicals, most recently The King and I, Opera Australia and The Gordon Frost Organisation are uniting again to produce the Tony® Award-winning Broadway production for the first time in Australia, with support from the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency Destination NSW. One of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s most popular titles, Cinderella was written for television, debuting in 1957 starring Julie Andrews, who was nominated for an Emmy Award for her performance. More than 100 million viewers saw the broadcast, more people than any other program in the history of television at the time. Cinderella was re-made for television in 1965 starring Lesley Ann Warren in the title role, Ginger Rogers and Walter Pidgeon as the King and Queen, and Celeste Holm as the Fairy Godmother. A further television remake followed in 1997 with Brandy as Cinderella, Whitney Houston as the Fairy Godmother, Bernadette Peters as the Stepmother, Whoopi Goldberg as the Queen and Jason Alexander as Lionel. And now, it’s on stage in our fair Sydney with tickets on sale on 30 April, with pre-sales from 26 April – join the waitlist now at cinderellamusical.com.au.

Category: ART, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY, THEATRE

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