Swashbuckling Scarlet Pimpernel Musical for Melbourne

When you think of the world’s great superheroes, you probably think of Batman, Wonder Woman, Spider-Man, Superman, or the Black Widow. What you might not know is that the origin of the superhero genre actually dates back to a book written in the 1800s by an exiled Hungarian Baroness.

Baroness Emma Orczy became the creator of the original superhero: The Scarlet Pimpernel, when her novel of the same name was published and then subsequently made into a film in 1934. The story follows a foppish 18th Century Englishman, Sir Percy Blakeney, whose alter ego is the dashing hero ‘The Scarlet Pimpernel’ who works with a league of supporters to recruit French aristocrats from ‘Madam Guillotine’. The story includes a love triangle including Sir Percy’s Wife, Marguerite St. Just, who is torn between two men - a theme that has continued to be a staple feature the superhero genre to this day.

The story was later adapted into a musical, with a book by Nan Knighton and music by Tony-Award Winning composer Frank Wildhorn. The Scarlet Pimpernel musical is being presented this December 8-17 by local theatre company OsMaD, giving locals the opportunity to see an amazing piece of theatre which is rarely staged.

Says Director, Penn Valk, “The Scarlet Pimpernel is a swashbuckling musical with a twinkle in its eye. It’s an epic, historic musical set in 18th Century England and Francce at the height of reign of terror during the French revolution.

“Both the original novel and the book for the musical were written by women, and as a female director I’m excited to continue the female voice in telling this thrilling story”.

The music is written by Tony-Award Winning composer of Jekyll & Hyde, Frank Wildhorn. Says Musical Director, Matthew Nutley, “I can’t wait to bring this soaring score to life for Melbourne audiences. The music for this show is something really special, and its a great opportunity to hear a stunning score which is rarely performed”.

The Scarlet Pimpernel has plenty on offer for those looking for a night at the theatre. 

“The show is a drama, but it’s punctuated by hilarious moments of tomfoolery, romance, and thrilling swordplay. Working on the show, I’ve got a real sense of its grand romanticism and passion, but it’s also a show which never forgets to have fun,” says Assistant Director & Fight Choreographer DJ Pearce. 

The Scarlet Pimpernel is brought to life by a team of over 100 passionate volunteers across all elements of theatre craft.. 

The Scarlet Pimpernel plays at The Geoffrey McComas Theatre at Scotch College, from 8 - 17 December, 2022 with both daytime and evening performances. 

Venue:  Geoffrey McComas Theatre, Scotch College, 1 Morrison St, Hawthorn VIC

Dates: Thursday 8 December, 7.30pm (preview); Friday 9 December, 7.30pm (Opening Night); Saturday 10 December, 2pm; Sunday 11 December, 5pm; Wednesday 14, Thursday 15, Friday 16 December, 7.30pm; Saturday 17 December 2pm & 7.30pm.

Time: 2pm, 5pm & 7.30pm performances

Tickets: osmad.com.au or www.trybooking.com/CCRQH