Andy Freeborn on bringing introspection and escapism in ‘Brand New Dress’

One piano, ten fingers and and a pile of dresses Andy never wore. Until now.
Writer and performer Andy Freeborn chats their brand new show Brand New Dress which opens at Qtopia as part of the 2026 Mardi Gras season

Following the smash-hit success of Everything is Shit at the Old Fitz theatre in 2024, writer and performer Andy Freeborn returns with a new autobiographical cabaret that journeys through queerhood. Described as a “queer, rocking cabaret [that] delivers lyrical sweetness to nurse your wounded inner child and poetic rage to exorcise your demons”, Brand New Dress is selling fast ahead of its 2026 Mardi Gras premiere.

Theatre Thoughts heard from Andy ahead of the shows premiere which runs at Qtopia’s Loading Dock Theatre from the 23rd to the 27th February. Follow the link below to book tickets before it sells out!

You describe ‘Brand New Dress’ as an autobiographical cabaret, where did the idea originate in your mind?

Freeborn: Brand New Dress came from the need and desire to continue to find a deeper understanding of myself. When the song ‘Brand New Dress’ came first as an anthem for people like me, I realised that the exploration of my queerhood and queerness was far from over. 

You put on ‘Everything is Shit’ at the Old Fitz in 2024, what did you learn from this experience that you’re now bringing into BND?

Freeborn: That writing and performing about moments in your life you once thought were better buried, are actually better out! That songs and stories relate to more people than you think! 

To not script a show and chat to an audience about some of the more personal moments of your life, while not knowing what you may find during that process… it’s a thrilling task. 

“As much as I love to provide escapism, I sure do love to cause introspection.”

The journey of queerhood isn’t simple by any means, how would you say your show speaks to that journey?

Freeborn: Brand New Dress explores so many alleys of my own personal queerhood. 

I’ve highlighted and challenged thoughts, feelings and observations that once I thought were deeply complicated. Writing this show, I’ve found that it’s all rather simple if you’re just listened to and held while you share. 

This show has become something of joy through that complicated journey of self discovery. I’m excited to share that.

You’re staging BND right in the heart of Sydney’s Queer scene at Qtopia on Oxford St. What does this mean to you to be bringing yourself to this space?

Freeborn: I feel like a secure rebel, in a sense. Singing songs and telling stories in a space where once so many people were condemned for who they are… to be at the heart of this all is fucking special. 

What is the one thing you hope Australian audiences leave your show with?

Freeborn: I hope people find something within themselves. Whether it’s deeply personal or about how they can look at the world differently. As much as I love to provide escapism, I sure do love to cause introspection. 

About Qtopia

In February 2024, Qtopia Sydney opened its doors to share the journey of the Queer community in Australia. Through our exhibitions, performances, and programs, we strive to honour the stories of those who paved the way, amplify the voices of the present, and inspire a more inclusive future for all.

Qtopia Sydney is a storyteller – we tell stories through exhibitions, performances and programs, all designed to celebrate, commemorate and most importantly, educate. Whilst visiting Qtopia Sydney, we ask you to consider these fundamental life concepts through your own lens, and through the experiences of others. When you leave our doors, we hope you are armed with what it means to be inclusive and respectful of everyone’s identity, and with the empathy to find ways to celebrate that within your own community. We believe that this understanding is the best way to replace prejudice and fear with love and confidence.