Major Musical Update

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There’s plenty of major musicals doing the rounds in Australia at the moment, and many more just around the corner.

Here’s an update on what’s happening:

WICKED: The blockbuster musical that played for a year in Melbourne recently announced it would end its Sydney season at the Capitol Theatre in September. It’ll take a couple of months off before it opens at the QPAC Lyric Theatre in Brisbane in January. There’s been several cast changes of late and there’s likely to be a few more before the Brisbane run begins.

JERSEY BOYS: Somewhat the quiet achiever of the mainstream musical scene, Jersey Boys has been packing them in at the Princess Theatre in Melbourne and takes its final bow on July 25. It will then move to Sydney for a season at the Theatre Royal, which begins on September 18. It’s the perfect time for a musical in Sydney, with locals starting to get out and about.

MAMMA MIA: Yes, it’s still going. Mamma Mia heads to Brisbane from August 11 at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC and is currently in Perth, where it is playing at the Burswood Theatre and doing tremendous business. There’s also plenty of Helpmann talk about leading lady Suzie Mathers.

FAME: This one limped through its Melbourne season and is currently playing in Brisbane to reasonable houses. There are constant references to a Sydney season, but still no official word on when tickets will go on sale. This production features a strong cast and has been getting plenty of acclaim, but hasn’t quite set the box office on fire.

WEST SIDE STORY: This revival is about to begin a national tour, and opens in Sydney on Sunday, July 4 with what is expected to be a star-studded opening night at the Lyric Theatre. There’s plenty of talk surrounding this one, and it is likely it will build support as its season continues.

MARY POPPINS: The biggest musical premiere of the year is just around the corner with Mary Poppins to open in Melbourne on July 29. It’s perfect timing – general interest will ensure it survives the colder months and then the summer crowds will come out in force. There’s lots of excitement surrounding Verity Hunt Ballard as Mary. This one will tour, but is likely to stay in Melbourne for 12 months.

HAIRSPRAY: An October 3 opening night is slated for Melbourne, with Jaz Flowers expected to be named as the leading lady for the tuner within the next few weeks. The success of the film and the general love of the show should ensure it has a successful run. It’ll tour, and will probably leave Melbourne before Poppins does.

ALSO COMING: Rock Of Ages, Dreamgirls, Love Never Dies, Zhivago The Musical, The Boy From Oz