One of the most influential theatrical works of the 21st century, seen by over one million people worldwide and translated into more than 30 languages, Prima Facie, the original Griffin Theatre Company production, returns to Australian stages in a landmark homecoming season.
Written by Lawrence Olivier Award-winning Australian playwright Suzie Miller, one of the most internationally produced playwrights of her generation, Sheridan Harbridge will return to the role she originated – the performance that ignited a global theatrical phenomenon – under the direction of Lee Lewis.
Prima Facie premiered at Sydney’s Griffin Theatre Company in 2019, emerging from the Griffin Award for new Australian writing before touring nationally and rapidly expanding onto the international stage. The production moved from an intimate Kings Cross theatre to global acclaim, becoming one of the most produced contemporary plays of the 21st century.
Prima Facie follows Tessa, a criminal lawyer at the top of her game. She’s a winner who knows the law permits no room for emotion – even in cases of sexual assault. But when Tessa finds herself on the other side of the bar, everything she knew about the law comes into question.
Since its premiere, Prima Facie has been translated into more than 30 languages and staged across Europe, the UK, the US, Asia and South America. It culminated in record-breaking West End and Broadway seasons starring Jodie Comer and a forthcoming major screen adaptation starring Cynthia Erivo.
The Olivier and Tony Award-winning play has been widely praised for its emotional force and global impact, exploring themes of law, justice, gender and power with urgent relevance.
“I couldn’t be more thrilled to bring the original production of Prima Facie back to the stage with Lee Lewis and Sheridan Harbridge,” said writer Suzie Miller. “I am forever grateful for the talent and courage of these phenomenal Australian creatives.”
“Harbridge’s iconic performance of Tessa is carried in my heart, and has inspired productions in over 50 other countries! The joy of seeing her play Tessa Ensler again is, for me, immeasurable,” said Miller.
“Prima Facie shot out of a tiny theatre in Kings Cross like a lightning bolt, igniting conversation about the justice system that spread around the globe. Theatre of change is a special rare bird, and it began in Australia. What an honour to bring back the show that ignited a flame that’s still burning bright,” said award winning performer Sheridan Harbridge.
Prima Facie is a partnership between Griffin Theatre Company and Andrew Henry Presents. Co-producer Andrew Henry, described the return as a defining moment of cultural recognition. “Australia does not often pause to celebrate its great cultural exports while they are still shaping the world,” he said.
“Prima Facie is one of the most significant theatrical works ever to come out of this country. This season is about honouring that achievement, not chasing it, not remaking it, but acknowledging where it began, and the artists who carried it into the world,” said Henry.
“Prima Facie was the play that only Suzie could write. The culmination of her years of legal practice, her astonishing craft as a playwright, and moment of white-hot fury that ignited a blaze across the globe,” said Artistic Director & Co-CEO of Griffin Theatre Company, Declan Greene.
“Alongside Andrew Henry Presents, it’s a thrill to celebrate the powerhouse team that launched this cultural landmark from Griffin’s tiny 105-seat theatre – Suzie Miller, Lee Lewis and the original Tessa, Sheridan Harbridge.”
Prima Facie will play Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre from 20 May, before playing Sydney’s Roslyn Packer Theatre from 3 June 2026. Join the waitlist. For more information, visit: www.primafacieplay.com.au for details.
Image: Sheridan Harbridge in Prima Facie at Griffin Theatre – photo by Brett Boardman