Monash University’s recently developed Alexander Theatre in Clayton will play host to the musical adaptation of the highly acclaimed Australian novel, The Dressmaker by Rosalie Ham as part of MLIVE’s program of events from 19 – 26 October 2018.
The music adaptation written by the 2018 Artists in Residence, James Millar and composer Peter Rutherford (The Hatpin, Matilda) follows the story of Tilly – a girl who grew up under the label of murderer and returns to her hometown as a glamorous woman offering the latest Parisienne fashion to the locals. Her exceptional tale is full of love, secrets and revenge.
Millar and Rutherford were inspired by the “inherent possibilities” that the original novel, which received nominations and short-listings for several Australian literary awards, could offer on stage.
“We both fell in love with the novel itself and were attracted to the way the story majestically weaves the members of its community of supporting players and their grim and unexpected secrets together in a way that speaks to the modus operandi of all isolated communities,” said Millar and Rutherford.
Students from the Sir Zelman Cowen School of Music and Monash’s Centre for Theatre and Performance join some of Melbourne’s finest music theatre artists and creatives including director Suzanne Chaundy to magically bring the thrilling story to life in this not-to-be-missed production that theatre, musical and the novel’s lovers will adore.
The production forms part of the Jeanne Pratt Musical Theatre Artists in Residence program, a ground-breaking collaboration between Monash performing arts students and professional artists that aims to create and promote the development of uniquely Australian musical theatre.
Director: Suzanne Chaundy Featuring: Josh Gardiner, Nelson Gardner, Sue Ingleton, Noni McCallum, John O’May, Hester van der Vyver Musical Director: Adrian Portell Set Design: Dale Ferguson Costume Design: Chloe Greaves Sound Design: Marcello Lo Ricco Production Manager: Nic Clark Stage Manager: Stephen Moylan Script and Libretto: James Millar Composer: Peter Rutherford
The Dressmaker – a musical adaptation
Alexander Theatre – Monash University, Clayton campus
Season: 19 – 26 October 2018
Information and Bookings: www.monash.edu
Image: MLIVE presents The Dressmaker – a musical adaptation (supplied)