Deep-Heat Rivalry: Trevor Ashley’s Outrageous Hockey Musical Heads to Melbourne and Sydney in 2027

Deep-Heat Rivalry

Australian theatre audiences can look forward to a gloriously camp, cheeky and outrageously funny theatrical experience in 2027 when Deep-Heat Rivalry, the musical parody created by Australian performer Trevor Ashley and cabaret artist Phil Scott, arrives for Australian seasons in Melbourne and Sydney.

Following a successful London season and glowing reviews from critics, this adults-oriented comedy brings forbidden romance, musical mischief and over-the-top humour to two major celebrations of queer culture: the Midsumma Festival in Melbourne and the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

A Hilarious Take on Hockey Romance

Written by Olivier Award-nominated Australian theatre favourite Trevor Ashley and acclaimed cabaret performer and composer Phil Scott, Deep-Heat Rivalry takes inspiration from the popular hockey romance phenomenon Heated Rivalry and gives it a decidedly outrageous theatrical makeover.

Forget serious sporting strategy and realistic hockey action. This production combines locker room drama, forbidden love, cheeky musical numbers, outrageous innuendo and deliberately ridiculous sporting antics in a fast-paced comedy designed to entertain audiences who appreciate irreverent humour.

The story follows sworn enemies Shane Hollandaise and Ilya Stroganoff, two exceptionally handsome hockey stars whose fierce on-ice rivalry conceals an unexpected romantic attraction. Behind the body checks, bruises and competitive clashes, their feelings become increasingly difficult to hide.

From locker room encounters to romantic escapades, their story unfolds with exaggerated characters, big voices, flamboyant performances and plenty of theatrical surprises.

Trevor Ashley Delivers Camp Comedy and Musical Mischief

Deep-Heat Rivalry

Trevor Ashley is renowned for his bold stage persona, cabaret performances and fearless approach to comedy. Working alongside Phil Scott, he brings a distinctive Australian theatrical sensibility to this deliberately over-the-top parody.

Audiences can expect a musical score spanning power ballads and energetic party-pop numbers, alongside outrageous costumes, suggestive comedy and adult humour. The production also includes full-frontal nudity, making it a show intended for audiences comfortable with explicit theatrical comedy.

Rather than focusing on the technicalities of hockey, Deep-Heat Rivalry uses the sport as a playful backdrop for a story about attraction, rivalry and unexpected romance.

The result is a knowingly excessive theatrical romp that celebrates the absurdities of romantic drama while embracing the freedom and flamboyance of camp musical comedy.

Melbourne Season at Midsumma Festival 2027

Melbourne audiences can catch Deep-Heat Rivalry during the Midsumma Festival, one of Australia's major celebrations of LGBTQIA+ arts and culture.

The production will play at Chapel Off Chapel in Prahran, an established venue for contemporary theatre, cabaret and independent performance.

• Dates: 21 to 31 January 2027
• Venue: Chapel Off Chapel, 12 Little Chapel Street, Prahran, Victoria
• Tickets: From $59
• Bookings and venue information: www.chapeloffchapel.com.au

The Melbourne season offers visitors an opportunity to combine a night of alternative musical theatre with the city's lively dining, entertainment and cultural attractions.

Sydney Season for Mardi Gras 2027

Deep-Heat Rivalry

The production will then head to Sydney for the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras celebrations, bringing its irreverent humour and flamboyant theatrical style to audiences in the harbour city.

The Sydney season will take place at Foundry Theatre in Pyrmont, providing another opportunity to experience this adult musical parody 
during a major event on Australia's LGBTQIA+ cultural calendar.

• Dates: 2 to 14 March 2027
• Venue: Foundry Theatre, 55 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont, New South Wales
• Tickets: From $69
• Bookings and venue information: www.foundrytheatre.com.au

Visitors attending the Sydney season can also explore Pyrmont's waterfront, restaurants and entertainment precincts or extend their visit to discover Sydney's celebrated attractions.

An Outrageous Theatre Experience for 2027

With its combination of musical parody, cheeky romance, flamboyant performances and deliberately provocative comedy, Deep-Heat Rivalry promises a distinctive addition to Australia's 2027 theatre calendar.

Whether attending Midsumma Festival in Melbourne or Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, theatre lovers seeking bold adult comedy can look forward to a production that takes romantic rivalry to wonderfully ridiculous extremes.

The gloves are off, the musical numbers are ready, and subtlety is firmly out of the picture.

Deep-Heat Rivalry

Melbourne bookings: Chapel Off Chapel
Website: https://www.chapeloffchapel.com.au/
Address: 12 Little Chapel Street, Prahran, Victoria, Australia

Sydney bookings: Foundry Theatre
Website: https://www.foundrytheatre.com.au/
Address: 55 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont, New South Wales, Australia

For tickets, current performance information and any additional booking enquiries, visit the relevant venue website. Email addresses and telephone numbers were not supplied in the production information.

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Blanc de Blanc Returns to Sydney in 2026 with Champagne, Cabaret and Dazzling New Acts

BLANC DE BLANC

Sydney's nightlife is set to sparkle when the five-star theatrical sensation BLANC DE BLANC returns to the city on 28 October 2026, bringing a glamorous new production, spectacular circus skills and cheeky cabaret comedy to The Grand Electric in Surry Hills.

Celebrating ten years since the show first appeared at the Sydney Opera House in 2016, this exciting new season promises an ambitious staging featuring never-before-seen acts, world-class performers and some much-loved audience favourites.

Combining acrobatics, aerial artistry, dance, burlesque, vintage glamour and mischievous humour, BLANC DE BLANC invites audiences to enjoy an extravagant night of live entertainment in one of Sydney's most distinctive performance venues.

A Decade of Champagne-Fuelled Entertainment

Since its debut in Sydney, BLANC DE BLANC has entertained audiences internationally, building a reputation for its bold combination of cabaret, circus performance and sophisticated theatrical mischief.

The production has attracted audiences from London's West End to Las Vegas, blending extraordinary physical feats with comedy, glamorous costumes and an atmosphere inspired by vintage champagne culture.

The new Sydney season celebrates the show's ten-year milestone with what producers describe as one of its most ambitious local stagings yet.

Producer Jess Copas has promised theatrical surprises alongside familiar highlights, including the production's infamous hot-tub scene.

Audiences can expect a playful, provocative and visually spectacular performance that brings together circus artistry and cabaret in an adults-oriented theatrical experience.

Meet the International Cast

BLANC DE BLANC

The returning production features an international cast of performers making their Sydney stage debuts together.

American entertainer Alex Makardish will take on the role of charismatic host, bringing experience from extended seasons in London and Melbourne.

Joining him is world champion contortionist Misha Makarov, whose remarkable flexibility and physical control promise impressive moments of circus artistry.

Award-winning aerialists Duo Coco and Marie complete the featured lineup. The duo comprises Marie Lebot from France and Corentin Lemaitre Auger from Canada, bringing their aerial skills and dynamic stage presence to the production.

Together, the performers will deliver a combination of breathtaking acrobatics, aerial spectacle, dance, comedy and cabaret, creating an energetic evening designed to surprise and entertain.

A Glamorous Night Out at The Grand Electric

Located at 199 Cleveland Street in Surry Hills, The Grand Electric provides the setting for this new Sydney season.

The venue's live entertainment atmosphere makes it an appealing destination for visitors seeking something beyond a conventional theatre performance. Its Surry Hills location also offers opportunities to enjoy the neighbourhood's restaurants, bars and cafes before or after a show.

For interstate visitors and Sydney residents planning a special night out, BLANC DE BLANC offers an opportunity to combine theatrical entertainment with an evening exploring one of the city's popular inner-city precincts.

Previous Sydney seasons have received positive reviews from entertainment publications, with critics praising the production's spectacle, playful atmosphere and exuberant approach to cabaret.

Celebrate Ten Years of BLANC DE BLANC

BLANC DE BLANC

With its international performers, daring circus acts, glamorous presentation and irreverent comedy, BLANC DE BLANC promises a memorable addition to Sydney's entertainment calendar for late 2026.

Whether planning a special occasion, a night out with friends or an exciting addition to a Sydney visit, this celebratory season offers a chance to experience a distinctive blend of cabaret, circus and theatrical spectacle.

The champagne is on ice, the performers are ready and Sydney is invited to raise a glass to ten years of BLANC DE BLANC.

BLANC DE BLANC – Sydney

Venue: The Grand Electric, 199 Cleveland Street, Surry Hills, Sydney, NSW
Season: From 28 October 2026.
Performance times: Wednesday to Friday: 7 pm; Saturday: 4 pm and 7 pm; Sun: 5 pm
Ticket prices: From $75, with premium champagne table packages for two advertised at up to $449, including a Möet Chandon Champagne table experience.
Tickets and bookings: https://blancdeblancshow.com/sydney

Website https://strutnfret.com/venues/the-grand-electric/

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Adults Only Magic Show at Sydney Fringe: My Night of Naughty Magic, Comedy and Surprises

Sam Hume and Justin Williams

I have seen plenty of live entertainment over the years, but the Adults Only Magic Show at Sydney Fringe Festival offered something rather different. Attending this R18+ performance at Fool’s Paradise, The Bunker, in Sydney’s Entertainment Quarter, I discovered a show that combines magic, outrageous adult humour, cheeky surprises and audience participation in a thoroughly unconventional evening of entertainment.

Featuring magicians Sam Hume and Justin Williams, together with assistant Richard Sullivan, the production takes traditional magic and gives it a decidedly mischievous makeover. This is certainly not a show for anyone expecting a polite magician pulling rabbits from hats!

Magic With a Naughty Twist

From the outset, the Adults Only Magic Show makes it clear that conventional rules are there to be broken. The performers mix the mystery of magic with risqué jokes, suggestive humour and unexpected twists, creating an atmosphere in which laughter is just as important as amazement.

What I particularly enjoyed about the concept was the way the show combines two different forms of entertainment. The magic provides the mystery, while the adult comedy keeps the audience laughing and wondering what outrageous moment might come next.

There is plenty of cheeky material, double entendres and deliberately provocative humour. The R18+ classification is well deserved, and the production is clearly aimed at adults who enjoy their entertainment with a generous helping of irreverence.

Sam Hume and Justin Williams Keep the Audience Guessing

Sam Hume

Magicians Sam Hume and Justin Williams are the driving forces behind the performance. Both bring an engaging stage presence to the production, using comic timing, misdirection and theatrical confidence to keep the audience involved.

Rather than presenting magic as a series of formal demonstrations, they build comedy around the tricks and make the unexpected an essential part of the experience. Just when you think you understand where a routine is heading, another surprise can change the direction of the joke or illusion.

Assistant Richard Sullivan also plays an important role in bringing the performance to life, contributing to the action and helping create the unexpected moments that make live magic so entertaining.

The performers understand that a successful comedy magic show is about more than fooling an audience. It is also about personality, timing and creating a shared experience in which everyone can enjoy the joke.

Illusions, Surprises and Audience Participation

One of the enjoyable elements of the Adults Only Magic Show is the involvement of the audience. Rather than simply watching from a distance, spectators can find themselves becoming part of the action.

Audience participation adds an extra dimension to the performance because there is always an element of unpredictability when people are brought into a live show. The resulting reactions, laughter and spontaneous moments help give the production its lively atmosphere.

The magic draws on familiar theatrical techniques, including sleight of hand, misdirection and visual surprises, but the adult comedy gives these elements a very different flavour from a traditional family magic show.

For me, the appeal lies in the combination of mystery and mischief. The audience is encouraged to relax, enjoy the jokes and accept that this is entertainment that deliberately refuses to take itself too seriously.

An Award-Winning Fringe Festival Production

Sam Hume

The Adults Only Magic Show has established a strong presence on the Australian fringe festival circuit, winning Best Magic Show in the Adelaide Fringe Weeklies awards in 2021, 2023, 2024 and 2026.

It has also received enthusiastic reviews, including five-star praise from The Wee Review and One4ReviewUK. Edinburgh Theatre Weekly described the production as “An Absolute Riot!”

These accolades help explain why the show continues to attract attention among audiences looking for something different from conventional theatre and comedy.

My Verdict: A Very Different Night Out in Sydney

Attending the Adults Only Magic Show was an opportunity to experience a side of live entertainment that is deliberately outrageous, playful and unconventional. Sam Hume and Justin Williams, supported by Richard Sullivan, deliver a combination of magic and adult comedy designed to entertain audiences who appreciate humour that pushes boundaries.

The production will not suit everyone, particularly those who prefer traditional magic or family-friendly comedy. However, for adults looking for an alternative night out during the Sydney Fringe Festival, it offers a distinctive blend of illusions, laughter and audience involvement.

My recommendation is to go with an open mind, expect the unexpected and remember that this is very much an adults-only experience. If you enjoy magic with a cheeky sense of humour, the Adults Only Magic Show provides an entertaining alternative to a conventional night at the theatre.

Adults Only Magic Show

Presented as part of the Sydney Fringe Festival
Venue: Fool’s Paradise, The Bunker, Entertainment Quarter, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Performance dates:  until10 October 2026
Duration: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Classification: R18+
Ticket prices: $45–$49, plus applicable booking fee
Website: https://sydneyfringe.com/

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Fool’s Paradise Sydney: Final Days of Circus, Comedy and Chaos at Sydney Fringe

Fool's Paradise

Sydney Fringe Festival's Fool's Paradise is heading towards its final days at The Entertainment Quarter in Moore Park, with circus, comedy, magic and family entertainment continuing through Sunday 11 October 2026.

There is still time for Sydneysiders and visitors to experience the colourful program before the temporary circus precinct closes. The Fool's Paradise program includes two performance spaces, The Bunker and The Virago, creating an unusual festival atmosphere in the heart of Moore Park.

Circus for the Whole Family

Families visiting during the October school holidays can choose from several productions.

The Giant Balloon Show continues through to 11 October, with performer Dizzy O'Dare turning balloons into the centrepiece of a 50-minute combination of comedy, physical performance, music, tricks and audience participation. Performances continue daily to 11 October, with the show recommended for children aged five and over.

All Star Circus also continues until 11 October. Presented by Head First Acrobats, the family show features human pyramids, one-arm handstands, spinning wheels and other physical feats in a fast-paced 50-minute performance.

The Flying Bubble Show provides a contrasting experience, combining bubbles, aerial movement, immersive theatre, music and lighting. The production continues with performances through Sunday 11 October at The Virago.

Comedy, Circus and Late-Night Entertainment

Fool's Paradise

For adult audiences, Return of the GODZ continues into the final weekend, with performances scheduled through Sunday 11 October.

The adults-only circus production combines Greek mythology with acrobatics, comedy and spectacular physical performance. The final performance is scheduled for 7pm on Sunday 11 October.

The Fool's Paradise program also includes other entertainment continuing into October, giving visitors opportunities to combine daytime family shows with evening performances.

Also still running

Daytime belongs to the families, with wheelie-bin slapstick in Trash Test Dummies Circus, dinosaur wrangling in Jurassic Down Under and slight of hand in The Greatest Magic Show, all playing through to 11 October. After dark, the program shifts gears with queer variety night Left of Centre on 9 October, the R18+ Adults Only Magic Show from 2–10 October and Lady Gaga burlesque tribute, GAGA-ESQUE, closing the season on 10 and 11 October.

A Different Sydney Fringe Experience

Fool's Paradise

Fool's Paradise transforms part of The Entertainment Quarter into a dedicated circus and performance precinct. The Bunker is an air-conditioned 15-metre geodesic dome equipped with aerial rigging, lighting and sound, while The Virago provides another performance environment for circus and physical theatre.

The Entertainment Quarter is at 122 Lang Road, Moore Park, with public transport connections including light rail services to Moore Park and nearby bus services. The precinct also has on-site parking and cycling access.

Final Week at Fool's Paradise

With performances continuing after 5 October and the Fool's Paradise season concluding on 11 October, the final week provides a last opportunity to experience the Sydney Fringe Festival's circus precinct in 2026.

Whether looking for family entertainment during the school holidays, spectacular acrobatics, balloon comedy or adults-only circus, Fool's Paradise offers a varied program before its Sydney season comes to an end.

Fool's Paradise Contact Details

Business: Sydney Fringe Festival – Fool's Paradise
Venue: The Entertainment Quarter, 122 Lang Road, Moore Park NSW 2021
Phone: 02 9145 4000
Website: https://sydneyfringe.com/fools-paradise/
Tickets: https://tickets.sydneyfringe.com/

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Don’t Dress for Dinner Brings Chaos and Comedy to Muswellbrook

Muswellbrook is set for an entertaining dose of theatrical mayhem when Muswellbrook Amateur Theatrical Society presents Don’t Dress for Dinner this October.

Opening Friday 9 October 2026, this fast-paced French farce promises secret affairs, mistaken identities, unexpected arrivals and a weekend that goes spectacularly wrong. For theatre lovers looking for a fun night out in the Upper Hunter, this production delivers plenty of laughs and classic farce.

A Weekend of Chaos and Comedy

Don’t Dress for Dinner centres on carefully arranged plans that rapidly fall apart. What begins as an attempt to organise a seemingly perfect weekend soon becomes an increasingly complicated web of secrets, lies, confusion and mistaken identities.

As unexpected characters arrive and one misunderstanding follows another, keeping track of who knows what becomes almost impossible. The result is a lively comedy filled with sharp wit, outrageous situations and plenty of theatrical surprises.

The production is ideal for audiences who enjoy traditional farce, clever comedy and fast-moving live theatre.

Meet the Cast

Don’t Dress for Dinner

Muswellbrook Amateur Theatrical Society has assembled a talented local cast for this production.

Andrew Reynolds plays Bernard, with Alex Duffell as Jacqueline, Jono Vickers as Robert, Kristen Bintley as Suzette, Paige Heusler as Suzanne and Ben Ruprecht as George.

Together, the cast will bring the tangled relationships, secret plans and comic misunderstandings of Don’t Dress for Dinner to the stage.

MATS has been an important part of the Muswellbrook and Upper Hunter community since 1960, showcasing local theatrical talent and producing a wide variety of performances.

Don’t Miss Don’t Dress for Dinner

The production will be presented across six performances at 80 Bridge Street, Muswellbrook, giving audiences several opportunities to experience this entertaining comedy.

Show dates are Friday 9 October at 7:30pm, Saturday 10 October at 7:30pm, Thursday 15 October at 7:30pm, Friday 16 October at 7:30pm, Saturday 17 October at 2:00pm for the matinee, and Saturday 17 October at 7:30pm.

Tickets are available through TryBooking, with theatre-goers encouraged to secure their seats for what promises to be a highly entertaining Upper Hunter production.

For anyone searching for live theatre in Muswellbrook, comedy in the Upper Hunter or a fun night out this October, Don’t Dress for Dinner is an entertaining choice.

Don’t Dress for Dinner

Muswellbrook Amateur Theatrical Society

Website: https://www.mats.org.au
Email: info@mats.org.au
Phone: (02) 6543 5180
Address: 80 Bridge Street, Muswellbrook NSW 2333
Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/DPCNF

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Australian Poetry Slam 2026: The Road to the Sydney Opera House National Final

The Australian Poetry Slam 2026

The Australian Poetry Slam 2026 season is heading towards its biggest moments, with poets across the country competing in a series of state and city finals before the national competition reaches the Sydney Opera House on Sunday 25 October.

From Sydney and Melbourne to Queensland and beyond, the remaining Australian Poetry Slam finals offer audiences the opportunity to experience powerful live poetry, spoken word and storytelling as emerging writers take to the stage.

Australia’s National Celebration of Spoken Word

Australian Poetry Slam is a nationwide spoken-word competition presented by Word Travels, giving writers an opportunity to perform their original work before a live audience.

The 2026 season has taken poetry beyond traditional literary venues and into communities across Australia. The competition includes heats and finals in more than 60 locations, with performers progressing through the stages towards the national final.

The format puts the audience at the centre of the experience, with audience members involved in judging performances and helping determine which poets progress.

The Remaining Australian Poetry Slam 2026 Finals

The Australian Poetry Slam 2026

For audiences looking for live entertainment and cultural events in October, several major Australian Poetry Slam finals are still to come.

The Sydney Final takes place on Friday 9 October from 7pm to 10pm at Word Travels – International Performing Writers Centre at Impact Lab in Darlinghurst.

Melbourne hosts the Victoria State Final on Saturday 10 October from 5pm to 7.30pm at The Performance Space at The Wheeler Centre.

The NSW State Final follows on Friday 16 October from 7pm to 9.30pm at the State Library of New South Wales in Sydney.

Queensland's State Final takes place on Saturday 17 October from 7pm to 9.40pm at the Queensland Multicultural Centre in Kangaroo Point.

Event times and venues are subject to change, so audiences should check the official Australian Poetry Slam listings before attending.

Sydney Opera House Hosts the National Final

The journey reaches its national finale on Sunday 25 October when the Australian Poetry Slam National Final takes over the Sydney Opera House.

The 2026 National Final is scheduled from 5pm to 8pm, bringing together leading poets who have progressed through the national competition.

At the National Final, the highest-scoring Australian resident aged over 18 is awarded the Australian Poetry Slam Champion title and a prize package valued at $20,000. The package includes publication opportunities, paid performance opportunities and professional mentoring.

Where Words Take Centre Stage

The Australian Poetry Slam 2026

Australian Poetry Slam offers more than a traditional poetry reading. Performers deliver their original words live, while audiences become part of the atmosphere through the competition's interactive format.

The result is an energetic evening of spoken word, personal stories, ideas and performance, making the remaining 2026 finals worth considering for anyone searching for cultural events, live entertainment and things to do in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane.

With the national final approaching, the Australian Poetry Slam 2026 season is entering its final and most anticipated stage.

Australian Poetry Slam

Website: https://www.australianpoetryslam.com/
Email: info@australianpoetryslam.com

For event dates, tickets, venues and the latest 2026 Australian Poetry Slam information, visit: https://www.australianpoetryslam.com/all-events

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The Shawshank Redemption Sydney: Further Casting Announced for Powerful 2027 Stage Season

The Shawshank Redemption

The Shawshank Redemption is heading to Sydney’s Theatre Royal in January 2027, with further casting now announced and final performances released for the highly anticipated stage production based on Stephen King’s celebrated novella.

The Australian production will play at Theatre Royal Sydney from 2 to 31 January 2027, before continuing its national tour to Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane.

A Powerful Story Comes to the Sydney Stage

Adapted for the stage by Owen O’Neill and Dave Johns, The Shawshank Redemption follows Andy Dufresne, who is sentenced to life imprisonment after being wrongly convicted of murdering his wife and her lover.

Inside Shawshank prison, Andy develops an enduring friendship with fellow inmate Red. Against a backdrop of hardship, corruption and injustice, the story explores friendship, determination and the power of hope.

The stage production brings the much-loved story into an intimate live theatre setting, offering Sydney audiences an opportunity to experience the drama from just metres from the action.

Full Cast Revealed

The Shawshank Redemption

David Berry, best known for Outlander and A Place To Call Home, stars as Andy Dufresne, with Bert LaBonté as Red and Rodger Corser as the Warden.

The newly announced cast includes Stephen Anzo as Nelson, Laurence Boxhall as Tommy, Soren Jensen as Hadley, Stephen Lopez as Rico, Blessing Mok as Entwistle, Nathan O’Keefe as Rooster, Mark Saturno as Dawkins and Jeremiah Wray as Bogs Diamond.

The production brings together performers with extensive experience across Australian and international theatre, television and film.

Final Sydney Performances Released

The Sydney season runs from Saturday 2 January through Sunday 31 January 2027, with no further extension possible.

Performances are scheduled across Tuesday to Sunday, including evening performances and selected Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday matinees. There is no performance on Tuesday 26 January.

Tickets are currently listed from $89.90, with prices varying according to performance and seating.

A Theatre Experience for Shawshank Fans

The Shawshank Redemption

The 1994 film adaptation of The Shawshank Redemption became a celebrated cinema classic and was nominated for seven Academy Awards. The stage production offers audiences a different way to experience the story, placing the characters, performances and dramatic action directly before them.

The Sydney production is recommended for audiences aged 15 and over and contains mature themes, strong coarse language, smoke and haze effects, cigarettes, firearms and partial nudity.

For theatre lovers, fans of Stephen King and audiences who know the famous film, The Shawshank Redemption provides an opportunity to discover this enduring story in a live Australian stage production.

The Shawshank Redemption

Website: https://www.shawshanklive.com.au/
Phone: 1300 163 808
Venue: Theatre Royal Sydney
Address: 108 King Street, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

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Witch Perfect Casts a Spell on Sydney with Drag, Comedy and Live Singing

Sydney audiences are set for a wickedly entertaining night when Tina Burner Presents Witch Perfect arrives at Darling Quarter Theatre on Saturday 10 October 2026.

Described as an all-live-singing comedy parody inspired by the cult-classic Disney film Hocus Pocus, Witch Perfect combines drag performance, comedy, music and theatrical spectacle. The Sydney performance begins at 8pm, with doors opening at 6pm. 

RuPaul’s Drag Race Stars Take Centre Stage

Witch Perfect brings together three internationally recognised performers from RuPaul’s Drag Race.

Tina Burner takes on the role of Winifred, with Scarlet Envy performing as Sara and Alexis Michelle as Mary. The production brings their distinctive drag personalities and live performance talents together for a theatrical take on the famous witch sisters.

The result is a show that combines the familiar Hocus Pocus concept with an entirely new musical comedy experience, making Witch Perfect an appealing choice for Sydney visitors seeking something different from traditional theatre.

Pop Hits Meet Broadway and Disney

Witch Perfect

Music is at the heart of Witch Perfect, with the production moving well beyond the original Hocus Pocus story.

The performance features musical parodies inspired by pop icons including Lady Gaga, Madonna and Cher, alongside Disney favourites from The Little Mermaid and The Lion King. Broadway fans are also treated to numbers inspired by Gypsy and Wicked. 

One of the show's signature moments is the sisters' own take on the famous "I Put a Spell on You", adding another theatrical highlight to the evening.

With comedy woven through the music, audiences can expect a lively performance that celebrates drag, popular culture and musical theatre.

A Halloween Season Night Out in Darling Harbour

The October timing makes Witch Perfect a natural choice for a Halloween-season night out in Sydney. Darling Quarter Theatre provides an intimate setting in the heart of Darling Harbour, surrounded by restaurants, entertainment and waterfront attractions.

The theatre is operated by Century Venues and presents a year-round program spanning comedy, cabaret, music and family entertainment.

For visitors staying in central Sydney, Darling Harbour is conveniently positioned within walking distance of many hotels and attractions, making it easy to combine the performance with dinner or an evening exploring the waterfront.

Plan Your Sydney Theatre Experience

Tina Burner Presents Witch Perfect performs at Darling Quarter Theatre on Saturday 10 October 2026 at 8pm. Doors open at 6pm. Ticket information and bookings are available through the official event listing.

The production contains adult themes and is intended for mature audiences.

Darling Quarter Theatre

Website: https://www.darlingquartertheatre.com.au/
Phone: 02 9550 3666
Address: Shop 3, 1-25 Harbour Street, Sydney NSW 2000
For tickets: https://aucentury.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/166423

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Sip, Laugh and Learn: Merrick Watts Returns to The Grand Electric with An Idiot’s Guide to Wine Volume 3

An Idiot’s Guide to Wine: Volume 3

For visitors looking for something different to do in Sydney this October, an evening of comedy, wine and entertaining stories is coming to The Grand Electric in Surry Hills.

Merrick Watts returns with An Idiot’s Guide to Wine: Volume 3, combining six handpicked wines with comedy, surprising wine facts, food pairing suggestions and stories from one of Australia’s best-known comedians. The popular show returns to Sydney for just two performances, making it an appealing choice for tourists and locals planning a memorable night out.

A Sydney Night of Wine and Comedy

An Idiot’s Guide to Wine: Volume 3 is not presented as a traditional wine tasting. Instead, Merrick Watts brings his distinctive comedic style to the world of wine, creating an entertaining experience where audiences can discover new varieties and wine regions while enjoying plenty of laughs.

The experience includes six tasting serves of wine, with the evening designed to combine entertainment and wine education. Audiences can expect surprising insights, snack-matching suggestions and stories as Watts explores the world of wine in his own irreverent style.

For travellers who enjoy Australian comedy, food and drink experiences, the event offers an opportunity to combine several Sydney interests in one evening.

Only Two Sydney Performances

Visitors will need to plan ahead because An Idiot’s Guide to Wine: Volume 3 is returning to The Grand Electric for only two Sydney performances.

The shows are scheduled for Friday 9 October 2026 at 7pm and Saturday 10 October 2026 at 7pm.

The event is for audiences aged 18 and over, with tickets including entry and tasting serves of six wines. Current ticket information indicates that some ticket releases are already selling quickly, making advance booking important for visitors who want to attend one of the two performances.

Discover The Grand Electric in Surry Hills

The Grand Electric

The Grand Electric is itself part of the experience. Located at 199 Cleveland Street in Surry Hills, the venue is known for its distinctive atmosphere and eclectic live entertainment program.

The Sydney tourism website describes The Grand Electric as a vibrant venue featuring comedy, cabaret, circus, musicals and other live performances. Its Parisian-style courtyard and intimate theatre atmosphere make it an interesting destination for visitors wanting to experience Sydney entertainment away from the city's major traditional theatres.

For tourists staying in central Sydney, Surry Hills is also an easy area to explore before or after the performance, with restaurants, cafes, bars and other entertainment options nearby.

A Different Way to Experience Sydney

A theatre night does not always have to mean a conventional play, musical or concert. An Idiot’s Guide to Wine: Volume 3 provides visitors with a distinctly Australian combination of comedy, wine tasting and storytelling.

The event can also be an enjoyable option for couples, friends or adult visitors wanting to add something unusual to a Sydney itinerary. Rather than simply watching a performance, audiences become part of an experience involving tasting, learning and laughter.

For wine enthusiasts, it is an opportunity to encounter new varieties and regions. For comedy fans, it provides a chance to see Merrick Watts in a live setting. For travellers, it offers another way to discover Sydney's lively performing arts and entertainment scene.

Book Early for Merrick Watts in Sydney

Merrick Watts

With only two performances scheduled at The Grand Electric, travellers planning a Sydney visit around 9 or 10 October should consider booking early.

An Idiot’s Guide to Wine: Volume 3 promises an evening where wine does not have to be complicated, and learning about it certainly does not have to be serious. With six wines, new discoveries, food pairing ideas and Merrick Watts' comedy, it is designed to make wine entertaining as well as approachable.

For visitors seeking things to do in Sydney in October 2026, this limited season offers a chance to sip, laugh and learn at one of Surry Hills' distinctive entertainment venues.

The Grand Electric 

Website: https://strutnfret.com/venues/the-grand-electric/
Email: grandelectric@strutnfret.com
Phone: (03) 7065 4895
Address: 199 Cleveland Street, Surry Hills NSW 2016, Australia

Merrick Watts – An Idiot’s Guide to Wine: Volume 3

Dates: Friday 9 October and Saturday 10 October 2026
Time: 7pm  Age: 18+

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Cirque Empire to Bring Roaring Twenties Glamour to Sydney’s Coliseum Theatre in 2027

Cirque Empire

The Coliseum Theatre in Western Sydney is set to become a spectacular 1920s playground when the world premiere of Cirque Empire arrives from 7 January 2027.

Created by the team behind the acclaimed Cirque Alice, Now You See Me Live and Circus 1903, the new production promises an extravagant combination of international circus artistry, comedy, dance and theatrical spectacle.

Coliseum Theatre will host the production at West HQ, creating a major new entertainment attraction for Sydney during the summer holiday period.

A Journey Into the Roaring Twenties

Set in New York City in 1922, Cirque Empire transports audiences into an era of glamour, decadence and outrageous entertainment.

The story follows a visionary young impresario who inherits his late father's fortune and invests everything into creating the ultimate destination for Roaring Twenties revelry. To make his theatrical empire extraordinary, he brings together an international collection of performers.

Audiences can expect high-flying aerialists, innovative acrobats, comedians and dazzling dancers as the story unfolds inside an extravagant 1920s-inspired world.

International Circus Meets Spectacular Dance

Cirque Empire

Produced by Simon Painter and Tim Lawson, Cirque Empire will feature performers from around the world alongside leading Australian dancers.

The creative team says the production will bring together some of the most remarkable acrobatic, dance and comedic talent to appear in a circus production, with the full cast to be revealed in the coming months.

The result is designed to appeal to a broad Sydney audience, from families looking for an exciting live experience to couples seeking an entertaining night out.

A New Chapter for Western Sydney Entertainment

The world premiere is also an important addition to the growing live entertainment program at the Coliseum Theatre.

West HQ CEO Richard Errington said securing Cirque Empire represents another step in establishing the Coliseum Theatre as a destination for major live entertainment in Western Sydney.

With its location near the M4 and M7, the theatre provides audiences from across Greater Sydney with access to major productions without travelling into the Sydney CBD. The venue is approximately a 10-minute walk from Rooty Hill and Mount Druitt railway stations. Coliseum Theatre

The Coliseum Theatre features a large multi-mode auditorium and is part of the wider West HQ entertainment, dining and accommodation precinct. Coliseum Theatre

Cirque Empire Sydney Tickets and Waitlist

Cirque Empire begins its world premiere season at the Coliseum Theatre from 7 January 2027. With the production promising spectacular circus acts, comedy, dance and an immersive 1920s atmosphere, it is set to be a major addition to Sydney's 2027 theatre and entertainment calendar.

Audiences can join the waitlist now through the Coliseum Theatre website, with further production and cast information expected to be announced.

Coliseum Theatre

Website: www.coliseumtheatre.com.au
Email: info@coliseumtheatre.com.au
Phone: (02) 9677 4916
Address: 33 Railway Street, Rooty Hill NSW 2766
Facebook: Coliseum Theatre Facebook
Instagram: Coliseum Theatre Instagram

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Silver Tongue Sets Sail at Hayes Theatre Co for a World Premiere of Australian Musical Theatre

Silver Tongue

Sydney is set for a swashbuckling new theatrical adventure when the Australian musical Silver Tongue Sets Sail at Hayes Theatre Co makes its world premiere at Hayes Theatre Co from 13 November to 12 December 2026.

Created by Australian talents Jacob Parker, Miranda Middleton and Alec Steedman, Silver Tongue is a fresh and irreverent reimagining of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic Treasure Island. Developed by Hayes Theatre Co over several years, the new musical combines original music, sharp humour, adventure and a contemporary story about identity, ambition and finding the courage to write your own story.

A Stellar Australian Cast

Leading the cast as the legendary pirate queen Silver Tongue is Billie Palin, joined by Natalie Abbott as Dick and Marty Alix as Jim.

The ensemble features Victoria Falconer as Peg, Jack Green as Squire and Dad, Tana Laga’aia as Hands, Shannen Alyce Quan as Livesey and Alec Steedman performing on violin. Lawrence Hawkins joins the production as standby.

The production brings together an impressive group of Australian actor-musicians, continuing Hayes Theatre Co’s reputation for presenting ambitious new music theatre and developing original Australian work.

A Treasure Island Story with a Difference

Silver Tongue

At the centre of Silver Tongue is Jim, a young person adrift in the world and searching for purpose while pursuing a mysterious map and legendary treasure.

Jim’s journey takes an unexpected turn after encountering Silver Tongue, a charismatic and formidable pirate queen who is part mentor, part menace and impossible to ignore.

Their treasure hunt becomes increasingly complicated as double and triple-crosses lead them into uncharted waters. Beneath the adventure is a deeper story about truth, redemption, identity and the freedom to create a new future.

The musical promises a distinctive blend of sea-shanty influences, folk and orchestral sounds, energetic performances and genre-blending original songs.

Hayes Theatre Magic

Richard Carroll directs Silver Tongue, with Victoria Falconer as Musical Director and Co-Arranger. Miranda Middleton serves as Co-Writer and Assistant Director, while Alec Steedman is Composer and Co-Arranger. Movement direction is by Vi Lam.

With its combination of comedy, adventure, music and a strong female lead, Silver Tongue is positioned as one of the notable new Australian musical theatre premieres of 2026.

Plan Your Sydney Theatre Visit

Silver Tongue

Performances run Monday evenings at 6.30pm, Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm, Thursday at 1pm and Saturday at 2pm. The running time is approximately 100 minutes with no interval.

Tickets range from $74 for previews, with standard adult tickets starting at $79 for selected performances. Under-35 tickets start at $60. A captioned performance is scheduled for Wednesday 9 December.

Hayes Theatre Co is at 19 Greenknowe Avenue, Elizabeth Bay, close to Kings Cross Station and within walking distance of Potts Point.

Hayes Theatre Co

Website: hayestheatre.com.au
Email: admin@hayestheatre.com.au
Phone: (02) 8065 7337
Address: 19 Greenknowe Avenue, Elizabeth Bay NSW 2011, Australia

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Hold Your Horses! Phar Lap Races Again in Sydney in 2027

Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical

Australian musical theatre is about to saddle up for another thrilling ride, with the award-winning Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical returning to Sydney in 2027.

Following its sold-out and critically acclaimed 2025 season at Hayes Theatre Co, this uniquely Australian musical will return in an expanded production at Carriageworks, Eveleigh, from 8 July to 8 August 2027. The Sydney season will be followed by a national tour, giving audiences around Australia the chance to experience the extraordinary story of Australia's legendary racehorse.

A Legendary Australian Story Reimagined

Phar Lap was more than a champion racehorse. For Australians, the giant gelding became a symbol of hope, determination and triumph during the difficult years of the Great Depression.

Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical brings his remarkable story to the stage through a fast-moving blend of history, comedy, drama and irresistible music. The production follows the gangly New Zealand-born horse, his trainer Harry Telford and the colourful characters surrounding his extraordinary rise to racing fame.

But this is no traditional historical musical. Along the way audiences encounter gambling scandals, double-crosses, an attempted shooting and even Phar Lap's infamous addiction to sugar.

Electro-Swing Meets Australian History

Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical

With an original electro-swing score by Steven Kramer, the musical gives Phar Lap's story a contemporary and energetic soundtrack. Drawing inspiration from musical legends such as Duke Ellington and modern artists including Daft Punk, the score combines brassy rhythms, retro sounds and infectious beats.

The result is a musical that moves effortlessly from the racetrack to the rave hall, swapping horseshoes for tap shoes while retaining the heart of one of Australia's most enduring stories.

An Award-Winning Musical Returns

The original 2025 production was a sold-out success and won three Sydney Theatre Awards, including Best Production of a Musical, Best Direction of a Musical for Sheridan Harbridge and Best Performance in a Leading Role in a Musical for Joel Granger.

Joel Granger, known for productions including Guys and Dolls and The Book of Mormon, returns as Phar Lap. His performance helped make the original production such a popular theatrical event.

The show's combination of witty storytelling, energetic performances and a distinctive musical style has earned strong reviews, with critics praising its originality, cleverness and irreverent approach to Australian history.

Phar Lap 2027 Sydney Season

Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical

The expanded production will be staged at Carriageworks, one of Sydney's leading contemporary arts venues, at 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh.

The Sydney season runs from 8 July to 8 August 2027, with performances on Tuesday at 6.30pm, Wednesday to Saturday at 7.30pm, Wednesday and Saturday at 2pm, and Sunday at 5pm.

Tickets start at $94 for adults, $84 for concession and group bookings, and $79 for under-35s.

Following Sydney, Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical will embark on a national tour, including seasons with Melbourne Theatre Company, Merrigong Theatre Company, Geelong Arts Centre and The Art House Wyong.

Book Your Place at the Starting Gate

With its larger production, award-winning creative team, celebrated leading performance and unforgettable electro-swing soundtrack, Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical promises to be one of Australia's most distinctive theatre experiences in 2027.

Whether you love Australian history, horse racing, musical theatre or simply want to see something completely different, Phar Lap is ready to race again.

Hayes Theatre Co

Website: www.hayestheatre.com.au
Phone: (02) 8065 7337
Venue: Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh NSW, Australia
Bookings: www.hayestheatre.com.au/event/phar-lap-2027-carriageworks/

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