Musical Theatre in Australia in 2026

AAR-Musical-Theatre-Guide-2026-update-1Captivating audiences with a dynamic blend of music, storytelling and spectacle, musical theatre productions have the ability to entertain and the power to evoke deep emotions, inspire connection, and create unforgettable moments.

Musical theatre in Australia has a long and proud  history holding a special place in the hearts of theatre lovers. From golden-age classics like My Fair Lady to contemporary masterpieces like Waitress, the art form remains vibrant and relevant.

Australian Arts Review takes a look at a selection of musicals that will grace Australian stages in 2026.

A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICALA Beautiful Noise The Neil Diamond Musical (US Tour Cast) photo by Jeremy Daniel
A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical is an inspiring, exhilarating, energy-filled musical memoir, that tells the untold true story of how America’s greatest hitmaker became a star, set to the songs that defined his career. Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A Beautiful Noise is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chartbusting, show-stopping American rock icon. With 120 million albums sold, a catalogue of classics like Cracklin’ Rosie, Forever in Blue Jeans, and Sweet Caroline, an induction into the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame, a Grammy® Lifetime Achievement Award, and sold-out concerts around the world that made him bigger than Elvis, Neil Diamond’s story was made to shine on Broadway – and the world. A Beautiful Noise plays the Melbourne’s Princess Theatre from 5 August 2026.

Amplified Sheridan Harbridge photo by Laura Du VeAMPLIFIED: THE EXQUISITE ROCK AND RAGE OF CHRISSY AMPHLETT
Chrissy Amphlett was a seismic force in a school uniform. Now the legendary rebel-queen of Australian rock is reimagined by the prodigiously talented Sheridan Harbridge. Chrissy had raw talent, stage conquering charisma and a rock’n’roll rasp. Her snarls of sexuality and vulnerability were thrown in your face like a beer in the front bar. Fronting the Divinyls, she shouldered through a blokey crowd, taking the band from the sticky carpets of Australian pubs to dizzying heights of chart success around the world. Take a live-wire journey through the words and music of the Divinyls’ legend in this electrifying new cabaret that blends biography with concert, as Sheridan fronts a live four-piece band while channelling Chrissy’s fierce spirit in a “rock odyssey” of music, storytelling and unapologetic attitude. AMPLIFIED plays at the Belvoir St Theatre from 29 January – 8 February 2026.

Georgina Hopson to star as Anya in Anastasia photo by James TerryANASTASIA
Inspired by the mysterious tale of Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanov’s rumoured escape in the dawning days of the Russian Revolution, and the 1997 Oscar nominated animated film of the same name, ANASTASIA has been brought to life on the stage by the Tony Award-winning creative team of Terrence McNally, Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens and directed by Tony Award winning director Darko Tresnjak. ANASTASIA is a lavish musical for all ages, transporting audiences from the twilight years of the Imperial rule to the euphoria and exuberance of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman named Anya sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Georgina Hopson leads the cast as Anya, alongside Robert Tripolino as Dmitry. They are joined by Joshua Robson as Gleb, Rodney Dobson as Vlad, Rhonda Burchmore as Countess Lily, and Nancye Hayes AM as the Dowager Empress. ANASTASIA will make its Australian premiere at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre from 20 December 2025, before heading to Crown Theatre Perth from 3 March 2026, the Sydney Lyric Theatre from 7 April 2026, and the Festival Theatre – Adelaide Festival Centre from August 2026.

Anthony-Warlow-and-the-Cast-of-ANNIE-photo-by-Daniel-BoudANNIE
Annie has captured the hearts of audiences around the world since its Broadway debut in 1977 – and now the legendary musical returns to Brisbane as a symbol of hope and optimism. With its iconic score, featuring classics like: It’s the Hard-Knock Life, Easy Street and Tomorrow, Annie is truly a timeless musical masterpiece. Starring Anthony Warlow as ‘Daddy’ Warbucks, Debora Krizak as Miss Hannigan, alongside Mackenzie Dunn as Lily St. Regis, and Keanu Gonzalez as Daniel ‘Rooster’ Hannigan, Amanda Lea LaVergne as Grace Farrell, and Greg Page as President FDR. Annie plays the Lyric Theatre – QPAC, Brisbane, from 27 December 2025 – 31 January 2026.

Back to the Future The Musical Roger Bart as Doc Brown and Axel Duffy as Marty McFly photo by Daniel BoudBACK TO THE FUTURE
Based on the Universal Pictures/Amblin Entertainment film, Back to the Future: The Musical has a book by Bob Gale, new music and lyrics by Emmy and Grammy Award-winning Alan Silvestri and six-time Grammy Award-winning Glen Ballard, with additional songs from the film including The Power of Love and Johnny B. Goode. The musical is based on the first film which sees rock ‘n’ roll teenager Marty McFly accidentally transported back to 1955 in a time-travelling DeLorean invented by his friend, Dr. Emmett Brown. But before he can return to 1985, Marty must make sure his high school-aged parents fall in love in order to save his own existence. The electrifying Australian cast is led by Tony Award winner Roger Bart as Doc Brown and Axel Duffy at the wheel as Marty McFly. Back to the Future: The Musical continues at the Sydney Lyric Theatre until 25 January 2026.

AAR MCG Beetlejuice The Musical Australian Production photo by Eugene HylandBEETLEJUICE
It’s showtime, folks! Following it’s Australian premiere at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre in 2025, the eight-time Tony Award-nominated hit musical Beetlejuice The Musical will return to Australia in June 2026. Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, Beetlejuice The Musical  tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. Directed by Alex Timbers, Beetlejuice features an original score by Eddie Perfect. The Brisbane season will be led by Broadway star Andy Karl as Beetlejuice, Karis Oka as the gothic teen Lydia Deetz, Elise McCann as the adorably neurotic Barbara Maitland, Rob Johnson as the sweet but clueless Adam Maitland, Erin Clare as the zen but zany Delia Deetz, and Tom Wren as Charles Deetz, the Dad who desperately needs a holiday from ghosts. Angelique Cassimatis will return as the beloved Miss Argentina, alongside Andy Conaghan as Otho, Adam Lyon as Maxie Dean, Noni McCallum as Maxine/Juno, and Rebecca Ordiz as Girl Scout.

The Cast of CATS photo by Daniel BoudCATS
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking musical CATS has returned to celebrate its 40th Australian Anniversary. Adapted from TS Eliot’s, Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the musical comes together in a sparkling fusion of music, dance and verse. With timeless music, breath-taking choreography, and the unforgettable anthem Memory, this iconic production is set to thrill audiences once more. The coveted role of Grizabella the glamour cat will be played by rising star Gabriyel Thomas. She will be joined by audience favourite Todd McKenney playing the dual roles of Bustopher Jones and Asparagus alongside classical performer Mark Vincent as Old Deuteronomy, with musical theatre star Lucy Maunder as the motherly protector Jellylorum. Also joining the feline line-up is Des Flanagan as the rebellious Rum Tum Tugger, Jarrod Draper as Munkustrap the storytelling tomcat and Leigh Archer as Jennyanydots. CATS plays Hamer Hall – Arts Centre Melbourne from 21 December 2025, before heading to Brisbane’s Lyric Theatre – QPAC from 8 February 2026.

AAR Evil Dead The MusicalEVIL DEAD THE MUSICAL
Follow five unlucky college students as they head to a remote cabin in the woods, accidentally unleash a horde of demons, and watch their weekend turn into a symphony of blood-soaked chaos. With book & lyrics by George Reinblatt, and music by Frank Cipolla, Christopher Bond, Melissa Morris and George Reinblatt, based on characters created by Sam Raimi, the songs in the show are completely off the wall with titles including All the Men in My Life Keep Getting Killed by Candarian Demons and What the F**k was That? Directed by Daniel Stoddart, with musical direction by Mark Bradley and choreography by Lochlan Erard, the cast includes Harley Dasey, Grace Alston, Emma Wilby, Jake Ameduri, Elaina Bianchi, Oliver Clisdell, Harrison Riley, Paloma Renouf and Matt Hourigan. Evil Dead The Musical isn’t just a show, it’s a bloody good time that’s taken the world by storm with over 500 productions globally. Based on the cult classic Evil Dead film franchise, this Off Broadway sensation combines outrageous humour, absurd horror, and a splash (literally) of gore to deliver a theatrical experience like no other. Evil Dead The Musical will play Sydney’s Seymour Centre from 20 February and Melbourne’s Chapel Off Chapel from 26 March 2026.

Heathers The Musical 2024 photo by Pamela Raith PhotographyHEATHERS
Welcome to Westerberg High, where popularity is a matter of life and death. Veronica Sawyer is just another nobody dreaming of a better day – until she’s unexpectedly taken under the wings of the beautiful and cruel Heathers. But when mysterious teen rebel J.D. arrives, Veronica soon learns that it might kill to be a nobody, but it’s murder being a somebody. With a mercilessly catchy mix of ballads and bangers by award-winning writers Kevin Murphy (Desperate Housewives) and Laurence O’Keefe (Legally Blonde The Musical), Heathers the Musical is directed by acclaimed American screen and stage director Andy Fickman. The high-octane, black comedy rock musical – based on the cult 1989 film starring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater – will play in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Gold Coast, Canberra and Perth from April 2026.

Into the Woods Brisbane production photo by Glenn Hunt design by Murray Summerville

INTO THE WOODS – Adelaide | INTO THE WOODS – Brisbane
Four decades since its Broadway premiere, Into the Woods has established itself as a beloved musical classic. With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine, Into the Woods follows iconic and well-loved characters like Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and Rapunzel. In a world where fairy tales collide, this timeless musical asks what happens when the story ends and … everyone lives happily ever after. When deepest desires are fulfilled, not all wishes are granted without a cost… Into the Woods dazzles with its unforgettable score, cast of dearly loved characters and a plot that refuses to play by the rules. In 2026, audiences in Adelaide and Brisbane will be treated to two new productions as State Opera South Australia presents Into the Woods at Her Majesty’s Theatre from 22 – 29 August; and Opera Queensland, Queensland Theatre and Queensland Symphony Orchestra presents Into the Woods at the Glasshouse Theatre – QPAC from 11 – 21 November.

QPAC Little Shop of HorrorsLITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS
Step inside Mushnik’s flower shop on Skid Row, in this black comedy musical, where down-on-his-luck Seymour discovers a strange and unusual plant with a taste for more than just plant food. Meet Audrey II – the foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore with a killer personality that’s ready to take over the stage (and the world). With Music by Alan Menken and Book and Lyrics by Howard Ashman, since its premiere in 1982, Little Shop of Horrors has enraptured millions of theatregoers worldwide and was adapted into a film  by Roger Corman in 1986 starring Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene and Steve Martin. Featuring irresistible hits like Suddenly Seymour, Feed Me (Git It) and Dentist!, this gleefully gory musical blends 60s pop, doo-wop and rock ‘n’ roll with outrageous comedy, camp charm and jaw-dropping puppetry. Little Shop of Horrors will play at the Cremorne Theatre – QPAC, Brisbane, from 3 January – 15 February 2026.

AG Theatre Mamma Mia The MusicalMAMMA MIA! THE MUSICAL
Seen and loved by over 65 million people around the world, this smash hit phenomenon is a joyous celebration of love, laughter and friendship, proving that MAMMA MIA! The Musical is a fabulous night out for all ages! Set on a Greek island paradise and inspired by the story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs, writer Catherine Johnson’s heart-warming tale centres around a young bride-to-be. On the eve of her wedding, as a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited twenty years ago. Featuring twenty-two of ABBA’s greatest hits, including Dancing Queen, Voulez Vous, S.O.S and Take a Chance On Me, the iconic songs you know, and love are guaranteed to have audiences dancing in the aisles! In addition to its legendary stage presence, Mamma Mia! has left an indelible mark on popular culture. The musical was adapted into the 2008 film starring Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried, Pierce Brosnan, and Colin Firth, followed by a well-received sequel, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, in 2018. MAMMA MIA! The Musical will play at St Kilda’s National Theatre from 7 February 2026.

MCG MJ The Musical photo by Daniel BoudMJ THE MUSICAL
MJ takes the audience back to 1992 and inside the creation of the iconic Dangerous World Tour. Starring Roman Banks as Michael Jackson, the musical goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. Featuring more than 25 of Jackson’s greatest hits from across his career including Beat ItSmooth CriminalMan in The Mirror and ThrillerMJ has captured the hearts and imaginations of Broadway audiences where it consistently plays to packed houses, has people leaping from their seats every night and has earned enormous acclaim. MJ THE MUSICAL is currently playing at Melbourne’s Her Majesty’s Theatre until 13 March, before heading to Brisbane’s Lyric Theatre – QPAC from 27 March and Crown Theatre Perth from 7 June 2026.

AAR MTC My Brilliant Career photo by Pia JohnsonMY BRILLIANT CAREER
Earning multiple five-star reviews in its sold-out premiere season, the joyous My Brilliant Career returns for a limited encore run. Led once more by the formidable Kala Gare – and featuring much of the original cast of dynamic actor/musicians – this smash-hit musical earned critical acclaim and five Green Room Awards, including Outstanding Production.  Set in the sweeping landscapes of 1890s Australia, the electric reimagining by Sheridan Harbridge, Dean Bryant and Mathew Frank transforms Miles Franklin’s literary heroine into a singer-songwriter for this very moment. Unapologetically ambitious, Sybylla Melvyn is wholly uninterested in the future society expects of her. Instead, she marches to the beat of her own drum, challenging class, gender and family to find her own voice. Directed by Anne-Louise Sarks and a breathtaking design from Tony Award-winner Marg Horwell, and a powerhouse score blending contemporary pop, bush ballad and raucous pub rock, this exhilarating return is a must-see for all ages. My Brilliant Career will play at the Southbank Theatre from 23 January – 28 February, before playing the Canberra Theatre Centre from 7 March, Roslyn Packer Theatre, Sydney, from 21 March, and the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre, Wollongong, from 8 May 2026.

AAR OA My Fair Lady Australian production 2016 photos by Jeff BusbyMY FAIR LADY
Celebrating 70 dazzling years since its Broadway debut, Lerner and Loewe’s My Fair Lady returns to the Sydney Opera House. Directed by Julie Andrews, the 2016 revival opened to huge acclaim. Now a decade on it makes a triumphant homecoming with Karen Johnson Mortimer at the helm. When Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe premiered their brilliant adaptation of George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion in 1956, it became an instant classic — hailed as “the perfect musical” and winning six Tony Awards. A heartwarming story of transformation and identity, My Fair Lady brims with razor sharp wit, unforgettable characters, and a glorious score including Wouldn’t It Be Loverly?, I Could Have Danced All Night and Get Me to the Church on Time. My Fair Lady will play in the Joan Sutherland Theatre – Sydney Opera House from 12 September – 18 October 2026.

Samantha-Jade-and-Ben-Hall-in Pretty-Woman-The-Musical photo-by-Daniel-BoudPRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL
Head to Hollywood with the dazzling stage adaptation of one of the most beloved romantic comedies of all time, bursting with glamour, charm, and all the iconic moments you know and love. Featuring direction and choreography by two-time Tony Award® winner Jerry Mitchell (Kinky Boots, Legally Blonde, Hairspray), an electrifying original score by Grammy® winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance (Summer of ’69, Heaven), and a book by the movie’s legendary director Garry Marshall and screenwriter J.F. Lawton, this sensation brings a Hollywood classic to life like never before. One of Australia’s favourite performers, Samantha Jade, stars as Vivian Ward, the role made famous worldwide by the much-loved Julia Roberts. Jade is joined by Ben Hall as Edward Lewis. The cast also features Michelle Brasier as Vivian’s wise-cracking friend Kit de Luca as well as Tim Omaji, also known as Timomatic, in the dual role of Happy Man / Mr Thompson. Pretty Woman: The Musical is currently playing at the Theatre Royal Sydney until 5 April, before playing Crown Theatre Perth from 18 April, Her Majesty’s Theatre, Adelaide, from 31 May, and Melbourne’s Regent Theatre from 14 July 2026.

Drew-Anthony-Creative-Saturday-Night-FeverSATURDAY NIGHT FEVER
Based on the 1977 movie starring John Travolta, Saturday Night Fever is the story of Tony Manero and his quest to break free from conformity and become king of the club.  The movie is credited with defining the 1970s, while the soundtrack remains the best-selling soundtrack of all time with over 45 million copies sold. Directed by Drew Anthony with choreography by Jamie & Suzi Rolton and Music Direction by Daniel Puckey, this reimagined new production of Saturday Night Fever propels the cult classic to dazzling new heights with explosive energy, sensational dancing and vocal performances that bring the amazing disco soundtrack to life. Saturday Night Fever is the ultimate celebration of the 1970s disco phenomenon that defined a generation and includes the Bee Gee’s hits Stayin’ Alive, Night Fever’, More Than A Woman and How Deep Is Your Love. Saturday Night Fever will play at Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre from 8 – 25 January 2026.

Showcase Entertainment Group Shrek The MusicalSHREK THE MUSICAL
Get ready for an unforgettable fairytale adventure as Showcase Entertainment Group brings the larger-than-life Broadway hit Shrek The Musical to Melbourne and Sydney stages throughout December and January. This dazzling production is packed with laughter, heart, and a whole lot of swamp magic. Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, Shrek The Musical reimagines the beloved story of everyone’s favourite ogre in a hilarious, high-energy spectacle for the whole family. Join Shrek, Fiona, Donkey and a cast of misfit fairytale characters on a side-splitting journey that proves there’s more to everyone than meets the ears. Featuring a Tony Award-winning score by Jeanine Tesori (Thoroughly Modern Millie, Caroline, or Change) and a witty book by David Lindsay-Abaire, Shrek The Musical blends big laughs, catchy tunes, and a joyful journey of friendship, courage, and inclusion. The Musical will play Geelong Arts Centre from 31 December – 3 January, Arts Centre Melbourne from 6 – 10 January, Frankston Arts Centre from 12 – 14 January, Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo, from 16 – 17 January) and Coliseum Theatre, Sydney, from 21 – 24 January 2026.

AAR SIX AUSTRALIA 2024 photo by James D MorganSIX THE MUSICAL
Since its premiere in 2017, SIX has become a cultural phenomenon, redefining the boundaries of musical theatre, continuing its unstoppable journey as it captivates audiences of all ages with its innovative and empowering take on history. Telling the extraordinary story of the six wives of King Henry VIII who step out of the shadow of their infamous husband and reclaim their own narratives, SIX is written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, this modern pop-inspired musical brings these historical figures to life, portraying them as fierce and influential pop stars in their own right. Audiences are taken on a journey through the lives of Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anna of Cleves, Katherine Howard, and Catherine Parr, each telling their own story and reclaiming their own narrative.  SIX the Musical will play Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre from July 2026, Theatre Royal Sydney from October 2026 and QPAC’s Playhouse Theatre in Brisbane from January 2027.

The Book of Mormon Capitol Theatre Sydney 2025 photo by Daniel BoudTHE BOOK OF MORMON
The Mormons are Back! This outrageous musical comedy follows the misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent on a mission to a place that’s about as far from Salt Lake City as you can get. The Book of Mormon features book, music and lyrics by Trey ParkerRobert Lopezand Matt Stone. The production is co-directed by Casey Nicholaw and Parker and choreographed by Nicholaw. The Book of Mormon made its world premiere in March 2011 at Broadway’s Eugene O’Neil Theatre, winning nine Tony Awards® including Best Musical and the Grammy® for Best Musical Theatre album. The London production opened in February 2013 at the Prince of Wales Theatre, winning four Olivier Awards®, including Best New Musical. It also won the Helpmann Award for Best Musical. The Book of Mormon continues at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre until 25 January, before playing at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre from 6 February and Brisbane’s QPAC from 30 July 2026.

The Lion King courtesy of Disney Theatrical GroupTHE LION KING
Giraffes strut. Birds swoop. Gazelles leap. The entire Serengeti comes to life as never before. And as the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. This is Disney’s The Lion King, making its triumphant return to Sydney! Loved globally, The Lion King has captivated nearly four million Australian audience members over the last two tours and this new Sydney season of the world’s most iconic musical is an exciting opportunity for loyal fans to reconnect and to spark a new wave of excitement in the next generation. The musical score features Elton John and Tim Rice’s music from The Lion King animated film along with three new songs by John and Rice; additional musical material by South African Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin, Julie Taymor and Hans Zimmer; and music from Rhythm of the Pride Lands – an album inspired by the original music in the film, written by Lebo M, Mark Mancina and Hans Zimmer. The resulting sound of The Lion King is a fusion of Western popular music and the distinctive sounds and rhythms of Africa, ranging from the Academy Award-winning song Can You Feel the Love Tonight to the haunting ballad Shadowland. The Lion King will play at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre from 18 April 2026.

AAR VO2026 The Pirates of PenzanceTHE PIRATES OF PENZANCE
Hurrah for The Pirate King! Gilbert and Sullivan’s uproariously silly operetta The Pirates of Penzance storms the stage of the Palais Theatre. Bursting with much-loved music, the score will leave you grinning with classics including I am the Very Model of a Modern Major General, Poor Wandering One and I am the Pirate King. Following their star performances in Victorian Opera’s Sweeney Todd, Ben Mingay and Antoinette Halloran lead the high-seas hijinks as the Pirate King and the long-suffering Ruth. This hilarious production will be directed by Stuart Maunder and conducted by James Pratt. The Pirates of Penzance will play at the Palais Theatre, St Kilda, from 31 January – 6 February 2026.

Queensland Theatre The SapphiresTHE SAPPHIRES
1969. The Vietnam War. Bombs are dropping and the world is exploding in protest. Back at the Tiki Club in St Kilda, four sisters from country Victoria – Gail, Kay, Cynthia and Julie – catch the eye of a big-city talent scout with their Supremes cover act. But for the MacCrae girls, the realisation of a lifelong dream to perform overseas isn’t quite what they had in mind … Based on the incredible true story of writer Tony Briggs’ mother, The Sapphires chronicles how these fierce and fabulous Yorta Yorta women blazed a trail from their small town roots to the frontlines of Vietnam, belting out Motown hits for the American soldiers and breaking through barriers with every beat. For over 25 years, this multi-award-winning play and the hit film it inspired have captivated audiences across the world. Now, The Sapphires are back in a sparkling new production featuring the next generation of First Nation superstars led by original director and theatre legend, Wesley Enoch. The Sapphires will play in theBille Brown Theatre from 28 April – 24 May 2026.

WAITRESS The MusicalWAITRESS
Inspired by Adrienne Shelly’s beloved film, and brought to life by a trailblazing female-led creative team, including a book by acclaimed screenwriter Jessie Nelson, an original, uplifting score by Grammy® winner Sara Bareilles (Love Song, Brave) and direction by Tony® winner Diane Paulus, WAITRESS is the irresistible Broadway hit about resilience, friendship and hope that has captured hearts worldwide. This heartwarming and empowering musical tells the story of Jenna, a small-town waitress and expert pie maker who longs to escape her rocky marriage and start again. When a baking contest, an unexpected new romance and the support of her fellow waitresses offer her a taste of change, Jenna discovers that the secret ingredient to happiness might be closer than she ever imagined. WAITRESS will play at Melbourne’s Her Majesty’s Theatre from 1 may, before playing at the Sydney Lyric Theatre from 1 August 2026.

MCG STC John Farnham photo by Serge ThomannWHISPERING JACK: THE JOHN FARNHAM MUSICAL
John Farnham. King of Pop. Australian hero. The voice of a generation. But as a cash-strapped, middle-aged father in the midst of an Australian rock revolution, it could have gone a very different way. In an outer Melbourne suburban garage in 1986, Farnham, with a new band and manager Glenn Wheatley, began work on an album and a song called You’re the Voice that would transform his career and their lives. This is the story of an overnight sensation, 20 years in the making. To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the highest-selling Australian album of all time, Whispering Jack, Sydney Theatre Company and Artistic Director Mitchell Butel join forces with Michael Cassel Group (HamiltonHarry Potter and the Cursed Child), TalentWorks (Finding the Voice) and acclaimed writer Jack Yabsley (Gold Diggers) to bring Farnham’s life, mischief and musical genius to the stage. Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical is a celebration, not just of hits like Pressure DownAge of ReasonTwo Strong Hearts and That’s Freedom, but also of friendship, family and a great Australian artist’s desire to shine a light on the world around us.

Theatre Works Young FrankensteinYOUNG FRANKENSTEIN
From the outrageous mind of Mel Brooks comes Young Frankenstein, the gloriously silly, lightning-powered musical comedy that celebrates everything wonderfully ridiculous about classic horror and big Broadway spectacle. When the impeccably serious Dr. Frederick Frankenstein inherits his family’s eerie Transylvanian estate, he is determined to distance himself from his grandfather’s notorious experiments. Science should be respectable. Clinical. Sane. Featuring showstopping numbers such as The Transylvania Mania, He Vas My Boyfriend, and the iconic Puttin’ on the Ritz – this West End smash hit turns mad science into pure musical magic. Silly, sparkling, and shamelessly over-the-top, Young Frankenstein is a love letter to old-school horror, vintage showbiz, and the art of a perfectly timed punchline. Theatre Works, St Kilda: 8 – 24 October 2026


Images: A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical (US Tour Cast) – photo by Jeremy Daniel | Sheridan Harbridge stars in Amplified: The Exquisite Rock and Rage of Chrissy Amphlett – photo by Laura Du Ve | Georgina Hopson to star as Anya in Anastasia – photo by James Terry | Anthony Warlow and the Cast of ANNIE – photo by Daniel Boud | Roger Bart as Doc Brown and Axel Duffy as Marty McFly – photo by Daniel Boud | Beetlejuice The Musical (Australian Production, 2025) – photo by Eugene Hyland | The Australian Cast of CATS – photo by Daniel Boud | Evil Dead The Musical (supplied) | Heathers The Musical (2024) – photo by Pamela Raith Photography | Into the Woods (Brisbane production) – photo by Glenn Hunt / design by Murray Summerville | Little Shop of Horrors – Graphic Design by Jeff van de Zandt | The Cast of MAMMA MIA! The Musical (supplied) | MJ The Musical – photo by Daniel Boud | My Brilliant Career – photo by Pia Johnson | My Fair Lady (Australian production, 2016) – photo by Jeff Busby | Samantha Jade and Ben Hall – photo by Daniel Boud | Ethan Churchill as Tony Manero and the Cast of Saturday Night Fever (Perth, 2024) – courtesy of Drew Anthony Creative | The Cast of Shrek The Musical – courtesy of Showcase Entertainment Group | The Cast of SIX the Musical (2024-2025 Australian Tour) – photo by James D Morgan | The Book of Mormon (Capitol Theatre, Sydney, 2025) – photo by Daniel Boud | The Lion King – courtesy of Disney Theatrical Group | The Pirates of Penzance – courtesy of Victorian Opera | The Sapphires – courtesy of Queensland Theatre Company | WAITRESS The Musical (supplied) | John Farnham – photo by Serge Thomann | Young Frankenstein – courtesy of Theatre Works