News

Riverside's National Theatre of Parramatta 2020 Program

In 2020, Riverside’s National Theatre of Parramatta (NTofP) will present national and world premieres, a new initiative for local talent, and a continued commitment to providing high quality theatre.

A Chorus Line for Darlinghurst Theatre in 2020

“Blood, sweat and tears don’t date,” says director and choreographer Amy Campbell, who will be bringing to life a thrilling reimagining of one of the most iconic dance musicals of our time – A Chorus Line.

Caroline or Change

Sydney’s Hayes Theatre is famous for inventively producing musicals on its tiny Darlinghurst stage. The company’s latest production, the Australian Premiere of Caroline or Change, could be its most ambitious yet. David Spicer reports.

One of the delights about seeing a production at Sydney’s Hayes Theatre is the transformation of the space, with a capacity of just 110 seats and a small square stage with no wings, into theatrical gold.

Is Musical Theatre Art?

The first Australian Musical Theatre Festival was held in Launceston in May, and organisers immediately showed they had a sense of humour by lining up some sharp shooting comedians to poke fun at it.  Is Musical Theatre Art? was the subject of a Great Debate. Read on to find out who won.

THE NO TEAM: Ned Townsend

Musicals are made of singing, dancing and light. All of these on their own can be considered artforms. But when they are cherry picked and stacked on top of each other, you are so distracted you cannot focus on anything else. 

Blind Casting Furore

Theatre companies in Australia are coming under attack from overseas networks about the ethnicity of their casts. It’s an issue that is causing grief in professional theatre, community theatre and in schools. David Spicer reports.

In April 2019, CLOC Musical Theatre in Melbourne released a statement on their Facebook page responding to criticism of their casting for the musical Kinky Boots.

9 To 5 The Musical for Sydney

9 To 5 The Musical is coming to Australia next year. Dolly Parton today announced that the hit West End musical will have its Australian Premiere (Professional) at the Sydney Lyric Theatre in April 2020. Waitlist today to be the first to buy tickets at 9to5themusical.com.au – tickets are on sale from Friday 13 September.

Meeting Sondheim, Schwartz and Prince

From flipping burgers in Newcastle to meeting Broadway royalty. Tyran Parke - the new head of Musical Theatre at the VCA -  describes his dream trip to New York.  In January he met composers Stephen Sondheim, Stephen Schwartz, and legendary director Hal Prince - just six few months before he passed away.

The Stage Whispers 3-minute interview … with Alexandra Bassiakou Shaw

The Stage Whispers 3-minute interview … with Alexandra Bassiakou Shaw

Final Curtain for The Production Company in May 2020

Jeanne Pratt AC, founder and chairman of The Production Company has announced that after 21 years and 65 musicals, her company will present its final musical in May 2020.

Jeanne Pratt said “I started the company in 1999 to stimulate the industry, create opportunities for local talent and produce quality entertainment at affordable prices. It has succeeded beyond my wildest dreams and as we plan our final curtain call, we’re doing so with pride, pleasure and wonderfully happy memories.

Victorian Opera Season 2020

Victorian Opera has revealed a most eclectic year with its Season 2020. From Richard Strauss to The Who, Victorian Opera caters to broad musical tastes in a season featuring revered musicians including conductor Simone Young, German soprano Marlis Petersen – Berlin Philharmonic’s current Artist-in- Residence – and singer Katie Noonan.

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