Strictly Ballroom rehearsals commence, Sydney

The 43 strong cast of Baz Luhrmann’s new musical spectacular Strictly Ballroom came together for the first time today as rehearsals commenced in Sydney.

An intensive eight week rehearsal period will take place at Carriageworks in Redfern before the production bumps into the Lyric Theatre, The Star in March. The first preview of this brand new production will take place on Tuesday 25 March ahead of an official World Premiere opening night on Saturday 12 April and all eyes are on this new Aussie-made musical across the globe.

Nearly 600 Australian performers auditioned for Strictly Ballroom The Musical over a number of years, with the final audition process lasting 8 months in 2013. Newcomers Thomas Lacey and Phoebe Panaretos were successful in landing the coveted roles of Scott Hastings and Fran and are joined by a triple-threat cast including Heather Mitchell, Drew Forsythe, Robert Grubb, Rohan Browne, Natalie Gamsu and Bob Bains in principal roles.

Panaretos took to social media over the weekend in anticipation of the full company commencing rehearsals:

Strictly Ballroom is the inspiring story of a championship ballroom dancer who defies all the rules to follow his heart. Brought to the stage by the original creative team behind the classic 1992 film, including director and co-writer Baz Luhrmann, set and costume designer Catherine Martin, choreographer John “Cha Cha” O’Connell and co-writer Craig Pearce, it is set to be another hit for Global Creatures in Australia.

For more information and bookings visit www.strictlyballroomthemusical.com