# Theatre Thoughts

> Exploring the world of theatre - One thought at a time


## Posts

- [Lead cast announced for the Australian premiere of Waitress](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-waitress-cast-announced/): WAITRESS Musical Cast have been announced for Australian premiere
- ['The Lion King' full cast revealed ahead of April](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-the-lion-king-full-cast-announced/): Disney has revealed the full cast that will step into the pride lands when THE LION KING returns to Sydney's Capitol Theatre, with performances from Saturday 18 April. 
- [Multi-Olivier Award-Winning Musical 'Fiddler on the Roof' to tour Australia direct from London](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-fiddler-on-the-roof-tour-announced/): Following record-breaking, sold-out seasons in London and across the UK, the critically acclaimed Fiddler on the Roof is set to tour Australia in 2026.
- [Bell Shakespeare announces cast for world premiere production of Mackenzie](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-bell-shakespeare-mackenzie-cast/): Bell Shakespeare today announced the cast for the upcoming world premiere of Mackenzie, a new play by visionary creator Yve Blake, including five original songs. 
- [Richard Roxburgh, Damon Herriman and Toby Schmitz to star in ART national tour](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-art-tour-sydney-premiere/): In a rare opportunity to see three of Australia’s finest actors on stage together, ART will embark on a national tour.
- [Their Invited! The cast for the Australian Premiere of The Prom is announced](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-the-prom-cast-announcement-sydney/): They’re invited! The cast of the upcoming Tony-nominated Broadway smash-hit production, THE PROM has today been announced. 
- [Michael Paynter to play John Farnham in STC World-Premiere](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-michael-paynter-john-farnham-stc/): Michael Paynter will play Australian music icon John Farnham in WHISPERING JACK: THE JOHN FARNHAM MUSICAL in Sydney Theatre Company’s World Premiere season
- [The Social Ladder Review: David Williamson's latest isn't his greatest](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/the-social-ladder-review-ensemble/): An ensemble cast revels in the comedic twists and turns of David Williamson’s new social satire.
- [Amplified Review - Chrissy Amphlett reimagined on the Belvoir Stage](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/amplified-review-belvoir-st-sydney/): Amplified: The exquisite rock and rage of Chrissy Amphlett is indeeed amplified at Belvoir St 
- [Beetlejuice The Musical to play in Perth in 2026](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-beetlejuice-the-musical-perth/): Western Australian theatre fans have chanted “Beetlejuice” three times and the most mischievous ghost in the history of musicals has responded.
- [Hänsel & Gretel Review: a whimsical and immersive reimagining of the classic fairy tale](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/hansel-gretel-review/): Type – Opera, fairy tale opera, If you liked – Cinderella (Cendrillon and La Cenerentola), Rusalka, Turandot Hänsel & Gretel: Lost in the forest, captivated by the chaos – it’s Hänsel & Gretel – like you’ve never seen before. Opera Australia’s Hänsel & Gretel brings the Brothers Grimm classic fairy tale to life with a whimsical twist, blending charm, mischief, and lashings of darkness. Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Sydney Opera House, the late Elijah Moshinsky’s staging returns to the Joan Sutherland Theatre led by revival director Claudia Osborne, where the production invites audiences into a story they think they know – […]
- [A Night of Rock and Roll with Bogan Villea Review: Unleash the bogan](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/rock-and-roll-with-bogan-villea-sydney/): Blak, bogan and as queer as Queen. Let your innner bogan out to play!
- [Ursula Yovich Sings Nina Simone Review – Range and Power lift up an iconic voice](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/ursula-yovich-sydney-festival-review/): Fabulous singing and a hot band, but the dialogue between songs falls flat.
- [The Interchange Review: A raw coming of age story that has great potential](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/the-interchange-qtopia-review/): A show that reminds us that growing up and first love never gets any easier.
- [Mama Does Derby Review: A whirlwind show on wheels](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/mama-does-derby-sydney-festival-review/): A larger than life and visually stunning comedy-horror that leaves you exhilarated.
- [Wake Review: Life, Death and Cabaret?](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/wake-review-sydney-festival/): Life and death is evoked in this variety cabaret performance that often struggles to find its true course
- [Save the Last Dance for Me Review: 20 utterly thrilling minutes](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/save-the-last-dance-sydney-festival/): The weight of trust in the whirl of polka chinata takes us on a 20-minute thrill
- [Bad Hand Review: A Cabaret about embracing the hand you've been dealt](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/bad-hand-nat-abbott-sydney-festival/): An hour of Nat Abbott's divine singing, sharing her uplifting, funny, and powerfully moving journey with grief
- [Exxy Review: Witty, raw and powerful; a story about hope that will stay with you long after the curtain's closed](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/exxy-review-sydney-festival/): For disabled dance artist Dan Daw, the struggle to be accepted and unique doesn’t come cheap
- [Hot Chip: Joy in Repetition Review - Immersive & Transformative Electropop](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/hot-chip-joy-in-repetition-sydney/): Dance, chill and get joyful with Hot Chip
- [Dear Son Review: A love letter from us to our Fathers and Sons](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/dear-son-review-belvoir-st/): Showing masculinity in a loving, trusting space - one ready for difficult conversations; a space Dear Son is urging to become the norm.
- [Duck Pond by Circa Review: Are you ready to swim with the swans?](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/duck-pond-by-circa-review-sydney/): A breath-taking feat of strength, comedy, and dance
- [Putting it Together Review: Sondheim is shown to still dazzle](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/putting-it-together-foundry-theatre/): A dazzling celebration of Stephen Sondheim’s work
- [Hamlet Camp Review: Therapeutic Bard for the recovering Actor](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/hamlet-camp-review-carriageworks-sydney/): Type – Comedic, Shakespearean, SketchIf you liked – Hamlet, Theatrically Reflective ComedyIf you hate – Modern Shakespeare Adaptations with no sense of time or space, one person technology focused theatre, theatre without an audience, critics Hamlet Camp: Brilliantly chaotic, poetic and reflective. This is your chance to see three of Australia’s greats in therapy. In the western canon of literary works, Shakespeare’s dramatically moody, prone to soliloquy, Danish Prince Hamlet is regarded by some as a golden crown of one’s career. For some, it may even be an obsession – this melancholic Prince of questions, words, words, words, and that […]
- [The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Review: A Cup of Circus Chaos for the School Holidays](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/the-mad-hatters-tea-party-review-sydney/): Acrobatics, antics and absurdity: great fun for kids and parents alike!
- [Cirque Alice Review: A Whimsical Circus Journey in Wonderland](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/cirque-alice-sydney-review/): Cirque Alice: A Whimsical Journey Through Wonderland with the White Rabbit
- [The Sydney Theatre Awards Announces Nominees for 2025](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/sydney-theatre-awards-2025-nominees-news/): Nominations were announced today for the 2025 Sydney Theatre Awards, which will be presented at an industry gala ceremony on Monday 19 January 2026 at the York Theatre, Seymour Centre.
- [Now You See Me Live! Review: Magic that defies reality, but not the formula](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/now-you-see-me-live-review-sydney/): Now You See Me Live!: Shrouded in the guise of the magic heist-trilogy of films, its main trick is to get you to look past this deception
- [Gatsby at the Green Light Review: Confident, Sexy and Outrageous](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/gatsby-at-the-green-light-review-2025/): Begins confident and stays sexy, in it’s full-throttled, outrageous appeal.”
- [Exceptional Singers Announced for Phantom of the Opera on Sydney Harbour](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-phantom-of-the-opera-cast-announced/): Opera Australia has today announced the three leads that will perform at Handa Opera's Phantom of the Opera on Sydney Harbour
- [EGOT Winner and Disney Legend Alan Menken is Heading to Australia in 2026](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/alan-menken-disney-performances-2026/): ONE-NIGHT-ONLY SHOWS CONFIRMED FOR MELBOURNE AND SYDNEY IN 2026 Melbourne and Sydney audiences are in for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with legendary composer Alan Menken confirming one-night-only performances of A Whole New World of Alan Menken in May 2026. The celebrated musical genius behind Disney classics The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Pocahontas and The Hunchback of Notre Dame, as well as Broadway favourites Little Shop of Horrors, Sister Act and Newsies, Menken has shaped generations with songs that have become woven into the cultural fabric.He is one of only 21 people ever to achieve EGOT status and holds […]
- [A Chinese Christmas Review: Culturally Rich & Festive](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/a-chinese-christmas-kxt-broadway-review/): It may feel like a spin on A Christmas Carol, but there's no Dickens to be seen in this culturally rich, festive season show
- [Nat Chats: Natalie Abbott on her new cabaret at the 2026 Sydney Festival](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/natalie-abbott-bad-hand-sydney-festival/): Singer, actor and now cabaret writer, Natalie Abbott, talks to Theatre Thoughts about creating her latest work Bad Hand which premiered at Adelaide Cabaret Festival in 2025
- [Dan Daw: Australian disabled performer and producer on the rise](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/dan-daw-interview-exxy-sydney-festival/): Proudly queer and disabled dance artist, Dan Daw, talks to Theatre Thoughts about creating his latest work Exxy and bringing it home to Australia
- [Bell Shakespeare presents contemporary production of Julius Caesar](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/bell-shakespeare-presents-julius-caesar/): An exploration of the art of politics and persuasion with violent ends in Bell Shakespeare's first show of the year, Julius Caesar
- [Trailer Drops for Australian Feel-Good Musical Comedy, The Deb](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-the-deb-trailer-drops-online/): Rialto Distribution is excited to announce that the joyous new Australian musical THE DEB will hit cinemas nationwide from January 15
- [The Phantom of the Opera will be one of Australia’s most spectacular events in 2026](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/phantom-of-the-opera-sydney-2026/): The Phantom of the Opera fans from around the world can kick off celebrations for the 40th anniversary of the iconic musical with a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Sydney, Australia where the extraordinary outdoor production returns for a much anticipated, limited run at Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour from 27 March to 3 May 2026. With the iconic Sydney Opera House as a backdrop, a live orchestra, nightly fireworks and pop-up restaurants and bars, Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is one of the most unique theatrical experiences in the world, and the only place where you can see this magnificent, epic-scale […]
- [John Foreman and the Australian Pops Orchestra present the Inaugural Holiday Concerts this Christmas](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-john-foreman-orchestra-concerts/): This December, a brand new tradition begins: over ten dazzling days, John Foreman’s Australian Pops Orchestra presents a festive season celebration like no other with four spectacular concerts starring some of Australia’s most beloved performers all at the Melbourne Recital Centre.
- [Dial M for Murder Review: A killer revival of the classic](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/dial-m-for-murder-review-theatre-thoughts/): Dial M for Murder: Suspenseful and stylish with a serving of lethal jealousy   
- [The Normal Heart: Larry Kramer's Landmark Play Returns to STC for 2026 Mardi Gras](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/the-normal-heart-returns-stc-2026/): Playing the Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House from February 9, The Normal Heart is presented in partnership with Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.  
- [As You Like It Review: A Quaint Evening with Shakespeare](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/as-you-like-it-review-melbourne-2025/): As You Like It: Raw Shakespeare with all the Christmas trimmings
- [Pretty Woman: The Musical Review - Reminds you to dream big](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/pretty-woman-the-musical-review-sydney/): Pretty Woman: The Musical: Welcome to Hollywood! This nostalgia trip reminds you to consider the question, what's your dream?
- [My Cousin Frank Review: A story that needs to be told](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/my-cousin-frank-review-theatre-thoughts/): Type – Historical, UpliftingIf you liked – Cinderella Man,Cool Runnings, The Diary of Anne Frank My Cousin Frank: One man, one family, a story that needed to be told. Told through an intimate one-woman performance by Rhoda Roberts AO, the My Cousin Frank tells the story of her first cousin, Frank Roberts –  a little-known Aboriginal Australian boxer who represented his country at the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games. Until this performance, I had never heard of his name. By the end, I felt compelled to tell others about him. The set is simple and inviting: a cosy living room, a […]
- [SIX the Musical causing a sensation (again) in 2026](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-six-the-musical-2026-tour-announced/): The record-breaking SIX THE MUSICAL set to return to Australia in 2026. Get on the waitlist now.
- [A Christmas Carol Review: Cheerful but not without its flaws](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/a-christmas-carol-melbourne-review/): This Christmas tradition strives to bring cheer and merriment to its audience, but perhaps needs a little polish to ring as brightly as intended
- [Principal Cast of Disney's THE LION KING announced](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/the-lion-king-principle-cast-announced/): Disney today announced the principal performers that will lead THE LION KING cast when the global phenomenon returns to Australia next year.
- [Handel's Messiah Review: A nuanced and fresh interpretation](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/handels-messiah-pinchgut-review/): A nuanced and fresh, five star rediscovery of Handel's heavenly work
- [ATYP launches a new chapter of leadership and the return to Sydney Opera House after 17 years](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/atyp-launches-new-chapter-news/): The Australian Theatre for Young People (ATYP) launches its first program under the newly appointed Artistic Director Hayden Tonazzi. 
- [Congratulations, Get Rich! (恭喜发财, 人日快乐) Review: An absurdly funny thrill ride](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/congratulations-get-rich-review-stc/): Congratulations, Get Rich! (恭喜发财, 人日快乐): Absurdly funny, emotional, and chaotic in the best of ways.
- [The True History of the Life and Death of King Lear and His Three Daughters Review: Western politics meets Shakespeare](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/king-lear-belvoir-st-theatre-review/): “'Tis the time's plague, when madmen lead the blind” this is a must see for Shakespeare fans and creatives
- [Romeo and Juliet Review: A fresh and passionate take on a tale as old as time](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/romeo-and-juliet-review-bell-shakespeare/): This fast-paced and minimalist production of the world’s saddest love story is a winner for Shakespeare fans 
- [Interview: One on One with the McFlys](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-interview-mcflys-back-to-the-future/): West End and Broadway performer, Alfie Boe, returns to Australia in an intimate concert tour.
- [Back to the Future: The Musical cancels planned Australian national tour for 2026](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-back-to-the-future-musical-ends/): Back to the Future: The Musical has officially announced that it well end its run in Sydney on the 25th January 2026, without commencing a national tour.
- [Present Laughter Review: A Charming and Hilarious Revival of Coward's Wit](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/present-laughter-review-new-theatre/): Type – Comedy, Revival, Panto-esqueIf you liked – Private Lives, anything by Oscar Wilde or Alan Bennett, Noises Off, The Play That Goes Wrong Present Laughter: A Charming and Hilarious Revival of Coward’s Wit There’s a certain pleasure in seeing a Noӫl Coward play performed not on a grand stage but in a smaller, more intimate theatre like the New Theatre in Newtown. The quicksilver dialogue and brittle charm are delivered without mics and the actors are close enough to touch. This local production of Present Laughter captures that spirit beautifully, giving us a lively and affectionate take on Coward’s semi-autobiographical […]
- [Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Review: A Monumental Powder Keg](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/whos-afraid-of-virginia-woolf-review/): An exorcism of marriage is told through an exploration of love so deep that it devastates 
- [Interview with Kat Stewart and David Whiteley: The joy of sharing the stage](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-interview-kat-stewart-theatre/): West End and Broadway performer, Alfie Boe, returns to Australia in an intimate concert tour.
- [Alfie Boe Exclusive: The Les Mis star discusses his raw, earthy, and real concert tour](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/alfie-boe-interview-australian-tour/): West End and Broadway performer, Alfie Boe, returns to Australia in an intimate concert tour.
- [Filipino-Australian Composer Debuts New Musical Project, NYMPH](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-new-musical-nymph-jennifer-trijo/): A new musical in concert with a healing original score by accomplished actor-musician, Jennifer Trijo, will debut at the Adelaide Fringe Festival in February 2026
- [Eddie Izzard set to bring acclaimed production of 'Hamlet' to the Sydney Opera House](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-eddie-izzard-hamlet-sydney/): Emmy Award-winning and Tony Award-nominated performer Eddie Izzard brings The Tragedy of Hamlet to the Opera House
- [The Lovers Review (NSW): Hilarious, joyful, and expertly performed](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/the-lovers-review-sydney-theatre-thoughts/): A must-see for those who love musicals, or Shakespeare, or both! This work is an absolute treat for the senses.
- [Sydney Festival announces 50th Anniversary Program: A Celebration of Culture and Community](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/sydney-festival-announces-2026-program/): Sydney Festival marks its 50th anniversary in January 2026 with a diverse city-wide program that honours five decades of cultural transformation.
- [Merrigong Theatre Company Announces its 2026 Season](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-merrigong-theatre-2026-season/): Merrigong Theatre Company is delighted to unveil its 2026 season, featuring 10 Mainstage shows, and a line-up of strictly limited seasons of smash-hit productions. 
- [HAIR Review - An iconic happening is revived](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/hair-review-melbourne-theatre-thoughts/): Hair: The Tribal Love-Rock Musical returns as a poignant reminder of the swiftness of life
- [Beetlejuice the Musical to give Brisbane the Fright of its Life in 2026](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-beetlejuice-the-musical-returns/): Eight-time Tony Award-nominated hit musical BEETLEJUICE THE MUSICAL will return to Australia in June 2026, following an international tour.
- [Smash hit musical 'Saturday Night Fever' is coming to Melbourne](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/saturday-night-fever-musical-melbourne/): Award-winning Drew Anthony Creative will bring the smash hit musical Saturday Night Fever to Melbourne
- [Little Anastasia cast members revealed for the Australian production of ANASTASIA](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-little-anastasia-cast-members/): Producers of the hit Broadway musical ANASTASIA have today revealed the talented young Melbourne performers who will be sharing the role of Little Anastasia
- [Tickets to WAITRESS are now on sale](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-waitress-tickets-now-on-sale/): Tickets are now on pre-sale for the Australian premiere of Broadway’s smash-hit musical WAITRESS
- [Phar Lap: The Electro Swing Musical Review - The legendary horse is alive and singing strong](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/phar-lap-review-hayes-theatre-thoughts/): The nation's favourite horse is alive and dancing in a musical that is as full of heart as it is bitingly satirical
- [Cast Revealed for the world's favourite murder mystery board game](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/theatre-news-cluedo-full-cast-revealed/): The Australian cast has been revealed today for the premiere of Cluedo, the world’s favourite murder mystery board game 
- [Tickets to modern classic ART starring Richard Roxburgh, Damon Herriman and Ryan Corr go on sale](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-art-the-play-tickets-on-sale/): Tickets to modern classic ART starring Richard Roxburgh, Damon Herriman and Ryan Corr go on sale in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane on Thursday 23 October.
- [Zan Rowe to host the televised A (Very) Musical Christmas Broadcast on ABC](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-zan-rowe-host-abc-televised-event/): The televised festive celebration will support Beyond Blue for the second year
- [Monty Python’s SPAMALOT brings Broadway to Darling Quarter for a strictly limited season](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-spamalot-darling-quarter-theatre/): Ignite Theatre Company is set to breathe new life and laughter into Sydney’s Darling Quarter Theatre with Monty Python’s SPAMALOT for a strictly limited season this November. 
- [Edward Albee's Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? starring Kat Stewart & STC's new bar](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-whos-afraid-of-virginia-woolf-stc/): Logie-award winner Kat Stewart and her real-life husband David Whiteley will make their Sydney Theatre Company debut this November
- [The Shiralee Review: Rich, heartfelt and visually theatrical storytelling](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/the-shiralee-review-stc-theatre-thoughts/): A stellar ensemble captivates in a vastly designed production that's sure to be an Australian classic
- [Calamity Jane Review: It's a whip crackin' good time](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/calamity-jane-review-sydney-opera-house/): An absolute hoot from start to finish, the lines of audience and performer are blurred in this production that may just be the most fun you'll have in a theatre
- [The Lucky Country Review - A new iconic Australian Musical](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/the-lucky-country-review-melbourne/): See Australia differently in this brand new musical that has the potential of being iconic
- [WAITRESS TO PREMIERE IN SYDNEY IN 2026](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-waitress-coming-to-sydney/): Broadway’s smash-hit musical WAITRESS is baking its way to Australia for the very first time, premiering at the Sydney Lyric Theatre in July 2026. Waitlist at WaitresstheMusical.com.au to be first in line to buy tickets when they go on sale later this month. Inspired by Adrienne Shelly’s beloved film, and brought to life by a trailblazing 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.​ “It’s been a dream of mine to see WAITRESS […]
- [What’s On at Melbourne Fringe? Read Fig Vinegar’s thoughts here:](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/whats-on-at-melbourne-fringe-reviews/): Fig Vinegar - has been on the scene taking on their own personal challenge to dive head first into what's on offer this fringe season in Naarm.
- [Meow Meow's The Red Shoes Review - A Masterclass in Controlled Chaos](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/meow-meows-the-red-shoes-belvoir-st/): A Masterclass in Controlled Chaos - glorious, anarchic triumph of bittersweet charm and control.
- [Now You See Me LIVE! Set to blaze a trail in Perth](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-now-you-see-me-live-perth/): The stage illusion spectacular, based on Lionsgate’s worldwide blockbuster film franchise, set to premiere in Perth in January 2026
- [The Quick Five with the cast of CALAMITY JANE](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/the-quick-five-calamity-jane-sydney/): What should audiences expect from this latest production of CALAMITY JANE at the Sydney Opera House? We ran the cast through The Quick Five to find out
- [Rebecca Review - A haunting, suspenseful and spectacular horror](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/rebecca-review-melbourne-theatre/): A haunting and suspenseful horror reimagined as an absolute visual spectacle 
- [Gus The Frog Spits Bars - Melbourne Fringe Festival (2025)](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/gus-the-frog-spits-bars-melbourne-fringe/): A rapping frog’s journey through existential dread; Angus Leighton’s Melbourne Fringe debut bursts with energy and originality, even if its ideas sometimes hop faster than they land. Tickets: Melbourne Fringe Festival – GUS THE FROG SPITS BARS (one man’s response to existential dread)6 – 10 OctoberThe Cabaret Stage-The Motley Bauhaus 3 STARS There’s no question that the planet we live in is often hard to comprehend-and that’s just from a human perspective. Introducing us to Gus the frog (who may or may not spit bars-more on that later), Angus Leighton sets out to tell the story of this unlikely hero and the […]
- [OVERTURE Review: An immersive, contemporary dance work that gives us glimpses of insight into backstage](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/overture-review-sydney-theatre-thoughts/): OVERTURE Review: An immersive, contemporary dance work that gives us glimpses of insight into backstage
- [Back to the Future Review - A nostalgic, spectacular cult classic reimagining](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/back-to-the-future-musical-review-sydney/): A nostalgia-fuelled, high-energy ride that proves lightning can strike twice 
- [RENT Review: More timely than ever, this is eclectic and electric](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/rent-sydney-opera-house-theatre-review/): Measure your life in love and how many times RENT can continue to move you. Treat yourself to this!
- [Opinion: Curious and the curiouser - AI & Facism](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/opinion-curious-talks-opera-house/): A curious curation of engaging and thought provoking talks about the ideas shaping headlines, sparking debate and changing the way we live
- [Global Smash Hit MJ The Musical Confirmed for Brisbane Season](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/mj-the-musical-brisbane-news-theatre/): MJ the Musical will hit Brisbane following smash hit seasons in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. Get on the waitlist now.
- [Whitefella Yella Tree Review: You can't miss this intimate show of young love](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/whitefella-yella-tree-review-stc/): A must-see production that interwines black queerness and the colony to tell a gorgeously rendered modern love story
- [Taming of the Shrew Review: A shrewd and sharp reimagining](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/taming-of-the-shrew-review-theatre/): A shrewd reimaging blunts the controversy of one of Shakespeare's most contested plays in a thrillingly paced production
- [Australia! Meet your Doc Brown and Marty McFly](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/back-to-the-future-the-musical-news/): Producers John Frost, Colin Ingram and the creators of the original film trilogy Robert Zemeckis and Bob Gale are thrilled to release new footage of Roger Bart and Axel Duffy as Australia’s Doc Brown and Marty McFly ahead of the highly anticipated Australian Premiere season of BACK TO THE FUTURE: The Musical. The smash-hit production, and winner of the Olivier Award for Best New Musical, will welcome audiences for the first time on Australian soil tonight, Friday 26th September, at the Sydney Lyric. With an electrifying Australian cast led by Tony Award winner Roger Bart as ‘Doc Brown’ and newcomer […]
- [Port Review: This Simon Stephen's drama spans years of a single life](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/port-review-kxt-theatre-thoughts/): A grounded leading role grants us insight into the fears of not living a meaningful existence, guided by a steady directorial hand
- [The Cardinal Rule Review: The good, the bad and the elephant in the room of the Catholic Church](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/the-cardinal-rule-sydney-fringe-review/): A look into a 1990s Canberran childhood in the catholic church - the good, the bad and the elephant in the room
- [I, Julia Review: Fans of Julia Louis-Dreyfus unite at the Sydney Fringe Festival](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/i-julia-review-sydney-fringe-festival/): Type – Stand-up Comedy, Celebrity-FocusedIf you liked – Self reflective, Contemporary, Stand-up I, Julia: Fans of Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Unite! Lily Hensby has taken quite a risky decision in her Sydney Fringe show called I, Julia.  The whole premise and central pillar of the comedy depends on the audience knowing, recognising and liking the actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus. There seems to be plenty of us fans around as the (admittedly small) venue was full, and everyone looked like they enjoyed themselves.  If you’re unaware of who Louis-Dreyfus is, she plays Elaine in Seinfeld and Selena Meyer (the Veep) in Veep. Both these comedies […]
- [Three of Australia's biggest stars of stage and screen to star in 2026 tour of ART](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/news-art-tour-2026-announced/): In a rare opportunity to see three of Australia’s finest actors on stage together, Richard Roxburgh (Rake, The Correspondent, Elvis), Damon Herriman (Better Man, Mr Inbetween, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood) and Ryan Corr (House of the Dragon, Holding the Man, Kangaroo) will star together in the internationally award-winning play ARTby Yasmina Reza translated by Chrispher Hampton, a razor-sharp comedy about friendship, ego and the chaos a single opinion can cause. Commencing performances at Roslyn Packer Theatre in Sydney from 10 February 2026 for a limited season, the production will then tour to Brisbane’s QPAC from 11 March, Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre from 24 April and Adelaide’s Her Majesty’s Theatre as part […]
- [Gypsy: A Musical Fable Review - An entertaining and ambitious production](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/gypsy-review-north-shore-theatre-company/): Type – Community Musical Theatre, Fable, Sondheim ClassicIf you liked – Anything by Stephen Sondheim, Chicago, Cabaret Gypsy: A great way to start your relationship with a genius of musical theatre, and a solid production in the true Sondheim Broadway tradition Few musicals are as demanding as Gypsy. First staged on Broadway in 1959, its energetic score by Jule Styne and razor-sharp lyrics by Stephen Sondheim make it still fresh. It is loosely based on the 1957 memoirs of striptease artist Gypsy Rose Lee, and tells the story of her mother, Rose, as she tries to bring her own show-biz dreams […]
- [The Most Anticipated 2026 from the Theatre Companies of Sydney](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/most-anticipated-theatre-2026-feature/): Sydney’s major mainstage theatre companies have now all announced their 2026 season, so it’s now my duty as a theatre nut to count my top ten!
- [Theatre royalty to star in Australian premiere of ANASTASIA](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/anastasia-leading-cast-theatre-thoughts/): The producers of ANASTASIA have confirmed the leading cast of the Australian premiere.
- [The Lovers Review: Decadent and full of joy, Shakespeare still slays](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/the-lovers-review-theatre-thoughts/): Shakespeare meets Tomorrowland in a concert-styled prodcution of this new Australian musical. You'd be a pucking fool not to see it!
- [New Australian Musical 'The Lucky Country' Announces its Cast](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/the-lucky-country-cast-announcement/): The new musical The Lucky Country, about what it means to be Australian, today announced an impressive ensemble cast.

## Pages

- [Theatre Festivals](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/features/): Explore the best of the best, the quirkiest, the silliest and the awe-inspiring works at some of Australia's best theatre festivals
- [Theatre Festivals](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/reviews/home/): Explore the best of the best, the quirkiest, the silliest and the awe-inspiring works at some of Australia's best theatre festivals
- [Giveaways](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/giveaways/): Giveaways We are lucky enough to be working with some of the biggest publicists in the business to bring you some of the best giveaways. Some of these giveaways are Newsletter Exclusives, others can be found on our Instagram (@theatrethoughtsaus). Be sure to sign up to both so you don’t miss out! Sign up Current Giveaways Keep checking back to see what current giveaways Theatre Thoughts has, or sign up for the monthly newsletter below to get it direct to your inbox.
- [About](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/about-2/): About Us All our theatrical thoughts, from us to you! Established by creator, Justin Clarke, Theatre Thoughts is a dedicated site to promote and share the latest news and reviews from theatre companies across Australia. The site also features content from our own podcast, The Theatre Thoughts Podcast where you can hear one on one chats with creatives from some of the biggest shows in Australia. We are growing day by day, with a dedicated Sydney and Melbourne team ready to meet the demands of promoting shows from professional stages, through to independent theatres and even the community theatre scene. […]
- [Podcast](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/podcast/): Welcome to the Theatre Thoughts Podcast! Your one stop for all the latest conversations in the world of Australian theatre and beyond. 
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- [Artist of the Month](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/artist-of-the-month/): Artist of the Month Since 2023, we have been making it our mission to highlight a new artist from the Australian theatre scene each month. This individual could be a performer, director, writer, reviewer, sound designer, musician, lighting designer, set designer, stage manager and so on. If you feel like you’d know someone who would be perfect, contact us or hit us up on our socials @theatrethoughtsaus. December – Brittany Goh Musical Theatre Performer & Disability Activist Brittany Goh is a 19-year-old performer, content creator and aspiring disability advocate living on unceded Gadigal Land. After moving to Australia from Aotearoa, New Zealand, […]
- [About Us](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/about/): Theatre Thoughts is a dedicated site to promote and share the latest news and reviews from theatre companies across Australia. The site also features content from our own podcast.
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- [Reviews](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/reviews/): Find all the latest reviews from the mainstage and independent sector including musicals, stand up comedy and community theatre.
- [Home](https://theatrethoughtsaus.online/): Theatrical Thoughts from us to you! Theatre Thoughts is your home for all things theatre. Read our latest reviews, news and stream our hit podcast all on the one site. Follow us at @theatrethoughtsaus on Instagram.
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