Dressed to Impress: Sophie Montague Takes Centre Stage in THE PROM

There are musicals that entertain, and then there are musicals that mean something. The Prom sits firmly in the second category.

At its heart, it’s a story about visibility, acceptance, and the messy, joyful business of showing up for one another. When it first landed on Broadway in 2018, it struck a nerve: a big, brash, sequin-drenched musical that somehow managed to be genuinely moving. It asks, with both sincerity and wit, what it means to belong, and what we owe each other in a world that doesn’t always make that easy.

Now, Sydney audiences have the chance to experience it live at Teatro at the Italian Forum, where the show’s warmth and colour feel right at home in one of the city’s most distinctive performance spaces. At the centre of the story is Emma Nolan — a teenager in a small Indiana town who just wants to take her girlfriend to prom, and finds herself at the unexpected intersection of viral fame, Broadway egos, and her own quiet courage. It’s a role that demands both emotional depth and formidable vocal range, and stepping into Emma’s shoes for this production is Sophie Montague.

A 2023 graduate of the Queensland Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre (QAEMT), Sophie brings impressive training and rapidly growing professional experience to the role. Prior to QAEMT, they completed a Diploma of Musical Theatre at Brent Street in 2020. They’ve since performed as a soloist in QPAC’s Spirit of Christmas alongside the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, and appeared in the workshop production of Once In A Lifetime. Their training credits include Cry Baby, Heathers the Musical, and The Pajama Game. Most recently, they made their professional musical theatre debut with the Australian cast of Sister Act.

We chatted with Sophie ahead of opening night to talk about finding Emma, what the show asks of its audiences, and why a story about a prom in a small Indiana town might just be one of the most important musicals of our time.

What drew you to Emma?

Sophie: It’s always been on my career bucket list to play a queer role and Emma is the ultimate queer principal role, excellent songs, great show, great character arc, it was a no brainer!

Is there a particular moment in the show that feels especially personal or powerful for you?

Sophie: The song ‘Unruly Heart’ is quite special. The character has been through a lot up to that point and having that moment of self acceptance is very cathartic for me as an actor and for Emma as a character. I think it will really resonate with audiences.

You’re working alongside a real mix of newcomers and established legends like Caroline O’Connor — what has the rehearsal room been like for this production?

Sophie: It’s been really wonderful, and educational. I’ve loved watching how everyone is interacting, I think together we are creating a fabulous and impactful piece of theatre. I feel, as a somewhat newcomer, that I can learn so much from the more established members of the cast, especially Caroline. It’s no wonder she’s had such a glorious career; watching her in the room is a masterclass I feel honoured to witness.

What would younger Sophie say if they knew you’d be playing this role?

Sophie: I mean, I think it would be a thrill for younger me to know that I’m working in theatre to be honest. It’s a dream I thought would take many more years than it has. Emma in particular though would really excite little closeted me I reckon.

Emma’s journey is about standing up for yourself – what do you think audiences can learn from her?

Sophie: I hope that audiences can relate and or learn from Emma’s story. It’s one of resilience and courage, something I know the queer community has in abundance. In this time of political unrest I hope this show can open a few eyes and prompt a few conversations from its viewers.

What conversations do you hope audiences will have after they leave the theatre?

Sophie: This piece is provocative in a joyful and unforced way. I hope that it stays with viewers and encourages them to either reflect on or step into their true selves. Theatre has the power to change minds and I hope this piece does a bit of that.

If you could describe this production in three words, what would they be?

Sophie: Joyful, heartfelt, CAMP!

Why should audiences come and see The Prom?

Sophie: This cast and creative team are brilliant. They are delivering some truly incredible, tear jerking, ridiculous, camp, toe tapping, hilarious moments. Support this budding, fabulous theatre and help us get as many bums in seats as possible!

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The Prom runs at Teatro at the Italian Forum from March 24th.

For tickets and more information, visit the Teatro at the Italian Forum website.

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Header photo by Suzanne Gately.