Based on the 1980s classic cult movie, the cast of the smash-hit Broadway musical comedy XANADU has been announced, ahead of its strictly limited season at the Hayes Theatre in May 2016.
Leading the cast as Kira, the iconic role originated by Olivia Newton-John, will be Jaime Hadwen (Bring It On: The Musical) and Ainsley Melham (Hi-5) will play her love interest Sonny. The supporting cast includes Dion Bilios (Wicked), Francine Cain (Grease), Catty Hamilton (Hair), Kat Hoyos (Here Come The Habibs), James Maxfield (Dirty Dancing) and Jayde Westaby (The Rocky Horror Show).
“I’m thrilled to find my perfect cast for this wonderful iconic musical,” said Producer Matthew Henderson. “Jaime will be a glorious Kira; in his first musical after leaving Hi 5, Ainsley will be an endearing and delightful Sonny; and the rest of the cast are all top class musical theatre triple threats.”
“In this case though, they will all be quadruple threats as they’ll be roller skating around the tiny Hayes Theatre Co stage as well. XANADU is an exuberant party musical – audiences won’t be able to wipe the smiles off their faces for days after.”
Kira, the magical and beautiful Greek muse, descends from the heavens of Mount Olympus for Venice Beach, California, on a quest to inspire a struggling artist, Sonny, to achieve the greatest artistic creation of all time – the first roller disco… When Kira falls into forbidden love with the mortal Sonny, her jealous sisters take advantage of the situation and chaos abounds.
With a book by Douglas Carter Beane and music & lyrics by Jeff Lynne & John Farrar, XANADU is the hilarious roller-skating musical adventure based on the 1980s cult movie classic which starred Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly, and features the chart topping songs from the film including Magic, Suddenly, I’m Alive, Evil Woman, All Over the World and of course, Xanadu!
Director / Choreographer: Nathan M Wright Featuring: Dion Bilios, Francine Cain, Jaime Hadwen, Catty Hamilton, Kat Hoyos, James Maxfield, Ainsley Melham, Jayde Westaby Musical Director: Andrew Bevis Scenic Design: Nathan Weyers Costume Design: James Browne Presenters: Matthew Management in association with Hayes Theatre Co
XANADU
Hayes Theatre Co, 19 Greenknowe Avenue, Potts Point
Season: 12 May – 12 June 2016
Bookings: (02) 8065 7337 or online at: www.hayestheatre.com.au
Image: Jaime Hadwen and Ainsley Melham set to star in XANADU – photo by Frank Farrugia