My Brilliant Career
A new musical based on the novel by Miles Franklin
Book by Sheridan Harbridge and Dean Bryant
Music by Mathew Frank and Lyrics by Dean Bryant
Directed by Anne-Louise Sarks

“The holy grail of Australian musical theatre” The Age

Miles Franklin’s classic novel as you’ve never seen it before, with a live soundtrack that’s equal parts contemporary pop, folksy bush band and barnstorming pub rock.

Beloved by audiences and showered with five-star reviews, My Brilliant Career was Melbourne’s most in-demand ticket in 2024. “Brimming with abundant heart and soul” (Time Out), this uniquely Australian story has captivated a new generation and will have its Sydney premiere in 2026.

The “outrageously talented” (Australian Stage) Kala Gare plays Sybylla Melvyn, a fiercely intelligent and individual young woman in 1890s Australia who rallies against the idea that her ambition should start and end at finding a wealthy husband. Forced to choose between romance and her career, a family and a future that she defines, she decides she’s having it all.

With a joyfully fresh adaptation by Sheridan Harbridge, Dean Bryant  and Mathew Frank, expert direction by Melbourne Theatre Company Artistic Director Anne-Louise Sarks, and stunning set and costume design by Olivier and Tony Award-winner Marg Horwell (The Picture of Dorian Gray), My Brilliant Career transforms an iconic literary figure into an effervescent rockstar heroine for the modern age.

Approx. duration 2 hrs 30 mins, including interval. Subject to change.
Content Mature themes, sexual references, theatrical haze. Subject to change.
More information about accessible performances can be found here.