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Possum Magic
2024-04-05 - 2024-04-13 | Alexander Theatre Clayton, Monash University 48 Exhibition Walk,, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
Join us for a magical theatrical experience brought to life by Monkey Baa Theatre Company! Delight in the enchanting adaptation of Mem Fox’s beloved Australian children’s classic, “Possum Magic,” in a performance that promises to captivate audiences of all ages.
Performing in Melbourne and Geelong.
When: 10am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm.
5th April to 7th April, 2024 (Clayton)
12th April to 13th April 2024 (Geelong)
For: Ages 3-8 and their families
Where:
Alexander Theatre
The Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts,
Monash Performing Arts Centres
48 Exhibition Walk, Clayton 3800
Geelong Arts Centre
50 Little Malop Street, Geelong VIC 3220

Corpus Delicti!
2024-04-09 - 2024-04-14 | L:a Mamma, 349 Drummond Street,, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
Corpus Delicti! is a hilarious new comedy whodunnit from the makers of Mystery Radio Theatre.
It is 1950 and Vera Brady travels to a mysterious tropical island where she has to contend with a baffling locked-room murder, a werewolf and, worst of all, her stupid ex-husband. She will need to keep her wit dry and her martinis drier if she is going to solve this puzzle.
Four suspects – the prim secretary, the tough bodyguard, the elderly nanny, and the drunken groundskeeper. One of them must be the murderer. And possibly a werewolf. Join us for a good old-fashioned, comedy murder mystery. Can you spot the killer?
Corpus Delicti! Performed by Amanda Buckley, Matthew McDonald, Chris Saxton, Kathryn Tohill, Chris Tomkins and Mark Woodward
Directed by James Hazelden
Written and produced by James Hazelden and Nicholas Rasche
Lighting and sound design by Allan Hirons

A Case for the Existence of God
2024-04-13 - 2024-05-12 | Red Stitch: The Actor’s Theatre, Rear 2 Chapel Street, St Kilda East, VIC, 3182, Australia
“A Case for the Existence of God” at Red Stitch Theatre in St. Kilda. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of faith and humanity.
Ryan, a straight, white man, finds himself struggling with financial instability and the aftermath of a painful divorce. In contrast, Keith, a black, polished individual, is adept with finances and cares for a foster daughter as a single gay man. When Ryan reaches out to Keith for assistance in reclaiming lost family land through a loan, their worlds collide. Despite their outward differences, they uncover a shared “specific kind of sadness,” drawing them closer together. Hunter’s remarkable play is infused with humour, sincerity, and compassion, highlighting the unexpected connections that can arise amidst life’s challenges. Through their unlikely bond, Ryan and Keith offer each other support and understanding. Demonstrating that despite their differences, there is potential for hope and healing for everyone.
A Case for the Existence of God closes 12 May 2024.

The Almighty Sometimes
2024-04-15 - 2024-05-18 | Southbank Theatre, 140 Southbank Boulevard, Southbank, VIC, 3006, Australia
Iconic figures Nadine Garner from ABC’s “Savage River” and Max McKenna from “Muriel’s Wedding the Musical” headline this acclaimed family drama.
Unveiling a treasure trove of childhood stories, 18-year-old Anna embarks on a journey of self-discovery, encountering a vibrant imagination long forgotten. Determined to break free from the confines of societal labels, Anna confronts her well-intentioned mother, devoted boyfriend, and once-trusted therapist.
Kendall Feaver’s poignant narrative resonates with audiences nationwide, delving into the delicate balance between maternal nurturing and youthful autonomy with both warmth and wit. A multifaceted masterpiece, its brilliance illuminates diverse perspectives, sparking compelling discussions wherever it unfolds.

The Trojan War
2024-04-17 - 2024-04-28 | Chapel Off Chapel, 12 Little Chapel Street, Prahran, VIC, 3181, Australia
“The Trojan War” narrates the tragic demise of Troy. Rooted in the prophesied fate of Paris, whose birth heralds the city’s downfall. In an attempt to avert this destiny, Paris is exiled and marked for sacrifice. Setting off a chain of events that ultimately fulfils his foretold role. This production is a vibrant ode to life’s absurdities. Weaving together theatrical enchantment, catchy pop tunes, and sharp humour to whimsically probe the complexities of our modern existence.
“The Trojan War” presented by Nicholas Clark Management & production company A Slightly Isolated Dog. This theatrical experience offers a fresh perspective on timeless themes, inviting audiences to revel in the hilarity and poignancy of our shared human condition.

The Last Supper
2024-04-18 - 2024-04-20 | Guild Theatre, 761 Swanston St, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
Cipta Theatre Company is excited to present our semester one production for 2024: The Last Supper by Elizabeth Browne!
ABOUT THE PLAY
T-minus 2 hours until the end of the world…
Fire ravages the forests; unemployment rates and the cost of living soar; the air is becoming unbreathable. The world is – seemingly – beyond hope.
Amidst all this, the country has voted in a referendum to destroy itself via nuclear bomb. As Judy’s family share one last meal before ‘The End’, the world as they know it unravels with the ticking clock. Who deserves to live? Who deserves to die?
Time is running out…supper is about to be served.
CONTENT WARNINGS
Viewers should be advised this performance contains loud noises, mild coarse language, raised voices, fake blood, banging, table slamming, depictions of violence and weapon use, graphic depictions of death on stage, and depictions of consumption of alcohol.
SESSIONS
Thu 18 April 7.30-9.30pm
Fri 19 April 7.30-9.30pm (Auslan Interpretation)
Sat 20 April 1.30-3.30pm (Relaxed Performance)
Sat 20 April 7.30-9.30pm
IMPORTANT INFO
Run time: approx 90min + 20min interval
ACCESSIBILITY
Companion tickets are only applicable to people in a caretaker role accompanying a person with disability to the show. You must be able to provide a valid companion card in order to be admitted into the show.
Wheelchair access and seating
Hearing assist system, infrared pendants are available and may be collected from Box Office prior to performance
Elevators, escalators and staircases allow for various access paths to Level 2 theatres
There are accessible toilets available in the Arts & Cultural Building on all levels
All performances will be captioned

The Exact Dimensions of Hell
2024-04-18 - 2024-04-28 | Fortyfivedownstairs Theatre, 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
Bridget Mackey’s “The Exact Dimensions of Hell” delves fearlessly into the aspirations of adolescent girls while serving as a ceremonial dismantling of oppressive influences.
In the heart of the Australian suburbs, circa 1998, lies the tale of a fourteen-year-old girl yearning to embrace the mystical arts of witchcraft. Enter an older man who promises to impart his knowledge.
Bridget Mackey’s “The Exact Dimensions of Hell” delves fearlessly into the aspirations of adolescent girls while serving as a ceremonial dismantling of oppressive influences.
Featuring the captivating Matilda Gibbs and the esteemed theatre artisan Daniel Schlusser, this production challenges conventional notions of gender dynamics, empowerment, and authority.

Marvel Universe Live!
2024-04-19 - 2024-04-22 | Qudos Bank Arena, 19 Edwin Flack Avenue, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW, 2127, Australia
Family Friendly Live action arena tour of your favourite Marvel Universe heroes and villans.
SPIDER-MAN, IRON MAN, CAPTAIN AMERICA, THOR, BLACK PANTHER, HULK, BLACK WIDOW AND THE GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY… Unite in a race against time to defeat Loki in an epic quest to defend the universe from evil.
Touring show – also in Melbourne and Brisbane.

The King's Player
2024-04-19 - 2024-04-26 | Alex Theatre, 135 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda, VIC, 3182, Australia
Medieval Europe.
Plagues, death, squalor.
The occasional disembowelment.
General unpleasantness.
Against this backdrop, a nutrition, luck and talent-starved minstrel is suddenly and unexpectedly offered the holy of holies… a chance to become one of the elite. A King’s Player… in the Danish court of Elsinore.
This radiant solo performance brings 16 characters to life in an unforgettable show about fathers and sons, actors, success, poverty, Shakespeare and Elsinore.

Straight White Male
2024-04-23 - 2024-05-05 | La Mama Theatre, 205 Faraday Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
Straight White Male: Norm and Ahmed by Alex Buzo followed by Radha and Ryan by Nick Parsons.
1968. An empty street, late at night. A white man stops an Asian student.
2024. It happens again.
Different men from different worlds. The same gnawing fear.
“Men are seriously confused and angry – but when men get angry they want to hurt someone … And mostly the first person they hurt is themselves.”
1968 Australian classic, Norm and Ahmed by Alex Buzo followed by 2024 new play Radha and Ryan by three-time AWGIE winner Nick Parsons. Two plays. One story.
Praise for other work by Nick Parsons:
Dead Heart
‘A gripping contempo drama set in the middle of the Australian wilderness, “Dead Heart” provides thought-provoking intrigue and suspense in a spectacular outdoor setting. It also is a notable showcase for co-producer Bryan Brown, in one of his best performances to date as a cop caught up in tribal aboriginal conflicts. Intelligent and timely, pic should find appreciative audiences around the world and fest exposure should drum up word of mouth for this classy item.’
– David Stratten, Variety
The Straits
‘…the 10-episode series has a solid story, plenty of forward momentum and, for the American viewer, an unfamiliar setting that supplies guilt-free exoticism … “The Straits” mixes gangster film and culture clash formulas in interesting ways and occasionally provides some slyly humorous dialogue.’
– Mike Hale, New York Times
Content Warning: Violence, discussion of rape and sexual violence and adult concepts, use of racist and homophobic slurs, mentions of suicide.
Produced and Directed by Nick Parsons
Cast: Danny McGinlay, Gursimar Kaur, Isaac Rajakariar, Sam Eade
Stage Management by Mikaela Innes
Lighting Design by Max Bowyer
Set/Costume Design by Jo Arrowsmith (with assistance from Adelash Parsons)
Music by T.Morimoto
Image by Danielle Evans

Potted Potter
2024-04-24 - 2024-05-05 | Athenaeum Theatre, 188 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
“Potted Potter”the unauthorised Harry Experience is a magical journey through the world of Harry Potter unlike any other. Presented in a hilarious and fast-paced format, this critically acclaimed production condenses all seven books of J.K. Rowling’s beloved series into just 70 minutes of non-stop laughter and excitement.
Created by Daniel Clarkson and Jefferson Turner. “Potted Potter” features two talented actors who take on multiple roles, from the iconic Harry Potter himself to the villainous Voldemort. With side-splitting humour and incredible energy. Audience members of all ages are swept away on a whirlwind adventure filled with broomstick flights, Quidditch matches, and encounters with mythical creatures.

RBG Of Many, One
2024-04-25 - 2024-05-12 | Playhouse Arts Centre Melbourne, 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
Following its wildly popular and sold-out premiere season in 2022, the Sydney Theatre Company’s hit production of “RBG Of Many, One” returns to the stage. Heather Mitchell, acclaimed for her award-winning performance (The Conversation), brilliantly embodies Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Ginsburg reshaped the American legal landscape.
As the second woman appointed to the US Supreme Court, Ginsburg left an indelible mark on the judiciary and the fight for gender equality and reproductive rights. Her life story is brought to life through the storytelling of Olivier Award-winning Australian playwright Suzie Miller (Prima Facie). The narrative traces Ginsburg’s victories and challenges, capturing the pivotal moments that defined her legacy.
Under Priscilla Jackman’s direction, Mitchell once again mesmerises audiences. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness the brilliance of this production for a second time.
“RBG Of Many, One” closes on 12 May 2024.

M.I.A Missing in Action
2024-04-30 - 2024-05-11 | The Motley Bauhaus, Carlton, 118 Elgin St, Carlton, VIC, Australia
M.I.A Missing in Action follows the journey of two close friends who harbour deep feelings for each other but struggle to acknowledge them. However, it diverges from the usual cliché romance narrative by infusing elements of camp and psychedelia. This whimsical and innovative production delves into themes of identity, queerness, and navigating unexpected romantic feelings for a best friend. The plot unfolds through Ally’s comedic exploration of her own sexuality and relationships, often with the guidance of her quirky sex therapist, Lindsey. Complicating matters is Mya, Ally’s best friend and secret crush, who is about to leave for six months. Meanwhile, Lindsey’s unconventional methods add an extra layer of intrigue and allure. As Mya’s return draws near, Ally is uncertain about what the future holds for their relationship, but wonders if Lindsey’s intervention will play a role—or not.
M.I.A Missing in Action closes 11 May 2024.

WAY
2024-05-01 - 2024-05-12 | Fortyfivedownstairs Theatre, 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
Written and performed by Sally McKenzie, directed by Sean Mee, with sound design by J. David Franzke, WAY fuses filmed sequences and live performance to interweave the fictional journey of documentary-maker Lynne with the lived experiences of the women in her film. There’s Julie who lives on the streets, Maysie who sleeps in her car, Lily of no fixed address, and Zahra who resides in a women’s refuge.
Sally McKenzie’s writing captures the essence of human emotion, weaving a narrative that is both poignant and thought-provoking. The play explores themes of identity, forgiveness, and the unyielding passage of time. With its rich character development and engaging dialogue, “WAY” promises to be an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Writer/Performer: Sally McKenzie
Stage Director: Sean Mee
Sound Designer: J. David Franzke
Lighting Designer: Giovanna Yate Gonzalez
Design Consultant: Richard Roberts
Technical Operator: Katie Williams
Producer & Screen Images: Sally McKenzie
Screen Editor: Joe Lancaster
Cinematographer: Rocco Fasano

About FortyFiveDownstairs
A unique multi-arts venue and cultural incubator, fortyfivedownstairs has a twenty-year history of supporting the development of independent artists across the visual and performing arts.
Located in Melbourne’s CBD, fortyfivedownstairs has two exhibition spaces, and a flexible theatre and event venue, which operate all year round. Venturing one floor below street level, the gallery exhibits a diverse range of art forms, from photography, to drawing, to sound art, and more.

Kiss Me Kate
2024-05-02 - 2024-05-05 | Alexander Theatre Clayton, Monash University 48 Exhibition Walk,, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
Kiss Me, Kate is the Tony Award winning musical comedy. It reinvigorated American composer and songwriter Cole Porter’s career with its ridiculous Shakespearean antics and a score of witty, hummable hits.
A play within a play, where passions run high. lLading lady, Lilli Vanessi, and her ex-husband, actor/director Fred Graham, clash onstage and off in a musical production of Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew. On opening night, the rekindling of their affection is complicated by misguided flirtations and romantic discord, gambling debts, singing gangsters, and other enjoyable backstage shenanigans.

World Problems
2024-05-03 - 2024-05-22 | Southbank Theatre, 140 Southbank Boulevard, Southbank, VIC, 3006, Australia
“World Problems” is a mesmerising journey through one woman’s memories, blurring the lines between personal recollections and speculative futures. As she delves deeper into her childhood, the distinction between self and the broader world becomes increasingly nebulous. Emma Mary Hall, known for her astute observations, crafts an elegy for the future, blending comedy and terror in a cathartic exploration. Carly Sheppard’s vivid performance, under Cassandra Fumi’s direction and Dann Barber’s design, catapults audiences through time. The play seamlessly merges intimate reflections with global perspectives, offering a poignant reflection on the human condition. With its poetic sensibility and attention to historical and global matters, “World Problems” serves as a solo time capsule, inviting audiences to contemplate where personal narratives intersect with the collective fate of humanity.

He by Rodrigo Calderón
2024-05-07 - 2024-05-18 | Explosives Factory, Rear Laneway 67 Inkerman Street,, St Kilda, VIC, 3182, Australia
A man revisits his childhood home, a small coastal town in post-civil war El Salvador—a place he vowed never to return to. “HE” explores the complexities of masculinity, homophobia, and love, set against the backdrop of family, war, and memories that linger like shadows. It’s a tale of desire, guilt, faith, and the vastness of the ocean. Conceived, written, and performed by Salvadoran-Australian theatre artist Rodrigo Calderón, “HE” is a visceral and intense narrative, pulsating with the rhythm of cumbia. Please note that the performances on Friday 10 and Friday 17 will be presented in Spanish without English subtitles.

Sitzprobe 2024
2024-05-08 - 2024-05-11 | Guild Theatre, 761 Swanston St, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
The Sitzprobe brings together four exciting and original 20-minute musical theatre shows, staging them in one big production.
The Shows:
What a Steal! (writer/composer Matt Chan)
Somewhere out there, there’s a city without a name, a haven for swindlers, scammers and grifters of every stripe. And nestled within its heart is a shoddy little used car dealership on the brink of financial collapse, where the deal of a lifetime is turning out to be a lot more than anyone bargained for…
Cryptid Crossword (writer/composers Belle White and Enje Herbert)
A cryptid’s loose in Skiptown, and there’s only one man who can catch it! Looks like David, a professional cryptid catcher with a penchant for crosswords, will need to sing and dance his way through perturbed politicians, maniacal moustaches, and long-dormant daddy issues to solve this one. Let the hunt begin!
Enemy Painters of the Renaissance (writer/lyricist Kristy Cornell, composer Tineque Law)
In 1508, Michelangelo impatiently awaits the commission that will name him the greatest artist of all time. Nothing can get in his way, until a young painter named Raphael waltzes into Rome and strikes up a raging rivalry that is sure to make its way into the history books.
The Raven Thief (writer/composer Colin Han)
Trapped within the walls of the traumatic past and the future yet to come, Alice and Margolis are confronted with one question – is the world really worth hiding from? Just ask the ravens.

Piaf! The Show
2024-05-16 - 2024-05-18 | The Palms at Crown, 8 Whiteman Street, Southbank, VIC, 3006, Australia
Prepare to embark on an enchanting journey with the legendary French singer, Edith Piaf, in “PIAF! THE SHOW.” Having enraptured audiences across more than 50 countries and sold over a million tickets worldwide, this spectacular musical extravaganza is now making its debut in Australia. Featuring Nathalie Lermitte, acclaimed as Piaf’s genuine musical successor, the production debuted in 2015 on what would have been Piaf’s 100th birthday, drawing inspiration from the renowned film ‘La Vie En Rose.’
Presented in two captivating acts, “PIAF! THE SHOW” recounts the extraordinary ascent of ‘la Môme Piaf’ (The Little Sparrow) from poverty to fame, weaving her timeless melodies amidst never-before-seen photographs and depictions of iconic Parisian scenes from her era. Join us for an immersive tribute to Piaf’s life and music—a sensory experience that transports you to the essence of her enduring legacy.

Share House: The Musical
2024-05-16 - 2024-05-19 | Fairfax Studio, 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
“Share House: The Musical” explores the dynamics of living in a share house at the age of 35, challenging societal norms and perceptions. Lucy and Jane, childhood friends turned housemates, find their dynamic disrupted when sunny optimist Alice moves in. While Alice’s positivity breathes new life into Lucy, Jane sees it as a threat to their established routine. As tensions rise, the trio must navigate their differences and find common ground to preserve their friendship and financial stability. Inspired by Jude Perl’s solo show “Roommates the musical,” this uplifting comedy delves into themes of friendship, cynicism, and embracing new perspectives, offering a humorous yet poignant exploration of life in a shared living space.
Share House: The Musical closes 19 May 2024

The Great Gatsby
2024-05-16 - 2024-06-08 | The Lowe Auditorium, 3 Rose Street, Upper Ferntree Gully, VIC, 3156, Australia
The breathtaking glamour and decadent excess of the Jazz Age come to the stage in Simon Levy’s adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, The Great Gatsby.
Follow Jay Gatsby, a self-made millionaire, as he passionately pursues the elusive Daisy Buchanan. Meanwhile Nick Carraway, a young newcomer to Long Island, is drawn into their world of obsession, greed and danger.

HYDRA
2024-05-17 - 2024-06-01 | Bayside Arts and Cultural Centre, Corner Wilson and, Carpenter Streets, Brighton, VIC, 3186, Australia
The captivating allure of the azure waters surrounding the picturesque Greek island of Hydra has historically drawn bohemians, artists, writers, and musicians. Among them, expatriate Australian writers George Johnston and Charmian Clift found inspiration during the 1950s and 60s, spending nearly a decade on the island where they produced some of their most notable literary works.
Their passionate and tumultuous love story raises universal questions about risk-taking, the pursuit of dreams, and the depth of commitment. Playwright Sue Smith intricately intertwines excerpts from Clift and Johnston’s writings to vividly portray these remarkable artists, exploring both their personal journey and professional achievements as expatriates.
Recently marking what would have been Charmian Clift’s 100th birthday, a year-long celebration has commenced to honour her literary prowess and contributions to the arts. This tribute by Brighton Theatre Company with Hydra recognises her enduring legacy and literary talent.

The Odd Couple
2024-05-18 - 2024-06-16 | The Comedy Theatre, 240 Exhibition Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
Neil Simon’s Tony Award-winning comedy, “The Odd Couple,” comes to Melbourne. Shane Jacobson and Todd McKenney embody the iconic characters of Oscar and Felix, two divorced men who become unlikely roommates.
This classic comedy opens on a friendly card game in the untidy apartment of divorced Oscar Madison. And if the mess is any indication, it’s no wonder that his wife left him. Late to arrive is Felix Ungar, who has just been separated from his wife. Fastidious, depressed, and none too tense, Felix seems suicidal, but as the action unfolds, Oscar becomes the one with murder on his mind when the clean freak and the slob ultimately decide to room together. The action unfolds with hilarious results as The Odd Couple is born.
Shane’s portrayal of Oscar, the cigar-smoking slob, contrasts hilariously with Todd’s portrayal of Felix, the hyper-allergic neat freak. As they navigate their differences, their antics lead to comedic misunderstandings and uproarious laughter. This Australian stage production promises to revive the timeless humor of Simon’s classic, with Jacobson and McKenney delivering comedic mastery. Audiences can anticipate the witty banter and mismatched dynamic that made the play, movie, and TV series beloved worldwide. Don’t miss the chance to witness this legendary duo bring to life the enduring charm of “The Odd Couple” in a side-splitting performance.

Mystery Radio Theatre
2024-05-18 - 2024-09-21 | The Butterfly Club, 5 Carson Place, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
Mystery Radio Theatre is the perfect Melbourne theatre experience.
Every month experience a fully-scripted, original comedy murder mystery, performed in the style of old-timey radio plays. Actors in elegant evening dress huddle around a microphone and transport you back to the time of classic radio thrillers.
Live ad reads and sound effects, musical guests, silly voices and a new whodunnit to solve every month. Order a cocktail and enjoy a very funny homage to the golden age of radio mysteries.
Mystery Radio Theatre is at the Butterfly Club until 21 September.

Shimmery Burlesque
2024-05-23 - 2024-05-26 | Athenaeum Theatre, 188 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
A first of its kind! Shimmery Burlesque is a groundbreaking stage show that follows the life of Lady Shimmery, an Australian dressmaker who travels to Paris where she falls in love with costuming for Burlesque. Shimmery embraces the classic allure of Burlesque, while taking an innovative approach that pushes the boundaries of this traditionally solo art form. Transitioning Burlesque into a grand-scale ensemble production, the show draws inspiration from the extravagance of vintage musicals from bygone eras, a style of entertainment seldom seen today.
In a dream-like sequence, we follow the passionate young dressmaker all the way from her sewing machine in Melbourne to the city of Paris. The story begins in Lady Shimmery’s studio, with her early memories of tailored suits, wedding dresses, and dreams of something more. Searching for inspiration, she adventures to Paris, where she discovers the art of Burlesque, igniting her passion for costume design. In breathtaking Shimmery costumes, a cast of twenty glisten with rhinestones, feathers and tassels – breaking out into big, beautiful Burlesque numbers that capture Lady Shimmery’s story and imagination, seamlessly weaving into the fabric of her narrative. Through an array of performance styles, Shimmery Burlesque blends elements of glamour, cheekiness, drama, playfulness, and hilarity, creating a heartfelt and unforgettable theatrical experience. From the elegance of feather fans and the sensuality of chair dancing, to the breathtaking aerial acts and high-energy chorus dancers, this is a show that promises to impress—truly an experience not to be missed!
Written and directed by Melbourne’s very own Holly Mouat, Shimmery Burlesque draws inspiration from her mother Kerrie Schultz (the real Lady Shimmery), who serves as the head costume designer for the production. Cabaret singer Abbey Paige Williams stars as Lady Shimmery, alongside a grand Australian Burlesque ensemble. Shimmery Burlesque is choreographed by Maple Rose and Kimera Diamond, with lighting design by award winning Jason Bovaird.

The Flood
2024-05-23 - 2024-06-01 | JMC Academy – Park St Campus, 208 Park Street, South Melbourne, VIC, 3205, Australia
“The Flood” is a complex theatrical piece that traces the journey of memory from the perspective of Joanna, a young protagonist. Through a dream-like narrative, we are immersed in the events surrounding Joanna’s parents’ divorce, exploring the dynamics between her cousin Lily, her mother Harriet, and her father Jonathan. These relationships profoundly affect Joanna, unsettling and transforming her identity. Serving as an unreliable narrator, Joanna candidly expresses her uncertainties as a youth, grappling with the loss of friendships and parental support leaving her feeling as though she is drowning on dry land.

Tosca at The Margaret Court Arena
2024-05-24 - 2024-05-30 | Margaret Court Arena, Olympic Blvd, Melbourne, VIC, 3001, Australia
In Puccini’s operatic masterpiece “Tosca,” love, jealousy, and betrayal intertwine in a gripping tale set over 24 hours in Rome. Renowned prima donna Tosca finds herself in a desperate struggle to save her lover, Cavaradossi, from the clutches of the sadistic Chief of Police, Scarpia. Puccini’s sensational music heightens the drama, from the powerful Te Deum to Tosca’s heartfelt aria ‘Vissi d’arte’ and Cavaradossi’s poignant ‘E lucevan le stelle.’
Opera North’s acclaimed production, directed by Edward Dick, brings tension to the stage with stunning visuals and dramatic lighting. Set in the Margaret Court Arena, the performance promises an epic theatrical experience, showcasing the talents of Opera Australia favorites Karah Son and Diego Torre, alongside British star Nadine Benjamin and Australian debutant Young Woo Kim. With a trio of brilliant performers and a story that resonates with romance, action, and unforgettable emotion, “Tosca” is a must-see opera for both newcomers and seasoned opera enthusiasts alike.

Multiple Bad Things
2024-05-29 - 2024-06-09 | Malthouse Theatre, 113 Sturt Street, Southbank, VIC, 3006, Australia
MULTIPLE BAD THINGS is a theatrical performance. It isn’t real, yet in a world where self-righteous indignation often overshadows the most marginalised voices, this theatre sometimes feels very real.
In this production, set in a nondescript warehouse at the world’s edge, three employees face a seemingly futile task. Struggling to collaborate, they confront issues of inclusion and equity, testing their physical limits, cooperation, and capacity for empathy. As civility erodes, bad behaviour escalates, and reality becomes increasingly distorted.
Back to Back Theatre is renowned globally for challenging the boundaries of stage performance and personal perception. For over 30 years, their ensemble has crafted powerful and captivating theatre that intertwines the personal, political, and cosmic. Groundbreaking international productions include Ganesh Versus The Third Reich and Small Metal Objects. MULTIPLE BAD THINGS is their latest endeavour.
In creating this new work, Back to Back Theatre incorporates new voices into the creative process. Zoë Barry’s score is composed from field recordings of various “bad things.” Anna Cordingley’s design requires the actors’ physical involvement to fully realise the production.

Carpet and Sand
2024-05-30 - 2024-06-16 | Fortyfivedownstairs Theatre, 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
Calamity Practice presents Carpet and Sand by Robert Reid.
Carpet and Sand at FortyFiveDownstairs is a tapestry of interconnected stories. Peter Brook and a group of actors journey through the Sahara Desert in pursuit of a new form of theatre. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of sheep suddenly panic and stampede across Oxfordshire. Additionally, a flock of birds convenes for a conference. The play explores the question: who do we follow and why?

Sunset Boulevard Melbourne
2024-05-30 - 2024-08-11 | Princess Theatre, 163 Spring Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
Experience a grand new rendition of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s acclaimed musical Sunset Boulevard, starring Sarah Brightman alongside a stellar cast of Australian theatre legends at the Princess Theatre in Melbourne.
This opulent musical extravaganza boasts breathtaking sets and costumes that capture the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Age, and features some of Lloyd Webber’s most iconic songs, including “With One Look”, “The Perfect Year”, and “As If We Never Said Goodbye”.
Tour Dates
Melbourne 3 May – 11 Aug
Sydney 28 Aug – 1 Nov
