From the moment I walked into the Sumner at Southbank Theatre, I knew I was about to witness something a little different. The stage, abuzz with the cast jamming on various instruments, set the tone for the performance ahead. What I didn’t expect was to witness the future of Australian musical theatre. Melbourne Theatre Company’s adaptation of Miles Franklin’s My Brilliant Career is nothing short of extraordinary.
Kala Gare’s portrayal of Sybylla Melvyn is a revelation. She commands the stage with such fierce determination and raw talent that it’s impossible to look away. As our protagonist navigates the complexities of 1890s Australia, Gare brings a modern sensibility to the classic character, making Sybylla’s century-old struggles feel startlingly relevant to contemporary audiences.
What sets this production apart is its innovative approach to storytelling. The entire cast serves as actor-musicians, creating a seamless blend of narrative and music that feels organic and fresh. And, in a move that warmed my soul, every word was sung in an Australian accent. The score, crafted by Mathew Frank and Dean Bryant, defies conventional musical theatre boundaries, weaving together contemporary pop, folk elements, and energetic pub rock to create something uniquely Australian yet universally appealing.
Under Anne-Louise Sarks’ masterful direction, the production moves with the fluid grace of a waltzing river and the untamed energy of a bush storm. Marg Horwell’s Olivier Award-winning expertise shines through in the set and costume design, creating a world that feels both historically authentic and cleverly theatrical.
The ensemble cast, including Victoria Falconer, Cameron Bajraktarevic-Hayward, and Lincoln Elliott, brings remarkable versatility to the stage. Their ability to switch between instruments while maintaining strong character work demonstrates the exceptional talent pool we have in Australian theatre.
What truly resonates is how this adaptation handles Sybylla’s core dilemma – the choice between romance and genius, between family expectations and self-determination. In 2024, these themes hit home with surprising force, reminding us that the fight for personal autonomy and creative fulfillment remains as relevant as ever.
The standing ovations My Brilliant Career receives nightly are well-earned. After five years of development, this Melbourne-made musical proves that Australian theatre can push boundaries while honouring our literary heritage. It’s a triumph that deserves to be seen not just in Melbourne, but on stages around the world.
For anyone questioning whether Australian musical theatre can compete on the world stage, My Brilliant Career provides a resounding answer. This isn’t just good theatre – it’s a defining moment in our cultural landscape. Book your tickets before the extended season ends in December. This is Australian musical theatre at its brilliant best.
Tickets on sale now via www.mtc.com.au.
