The Royal Shakespeare Company’s acclaimed production of “Matilda the Musical” will return to Australia in 2027, more than a decade after its original Australian premiere.
The musical will open at Melbourne;s Princess Theatre from October 2027 before travelling to Sydney Lyric and QPAC’s Lyric Theatre in Brisbane.
Based on Roald Dahl’s novel, “Matilda the Musical” features music and lyrics by Australian composer and comedian Tim Minchin, with a book by Dennis Kelly and direction by Matthew Warchus.
The production first arrived in Australia in 2015, and went on to play around the country for more than two years, attracting over one million theatregoers. It also became the most awarded musical in Australian theatrical history, winning a record 13 Helpmann Awards in 2016 and sweeping every musical category.
The return comes as the RSC production makes more then 15 years since its premiere in Stratford-upon-Avon. It is currently in its 15th year in London’s West End, where it has become the 10th longest-running musical in West End history.
Globally, the production has been seen by more than 13 million people in over 100 cities, and has won 101 international awards, including 25 for Best Musical.
Australian producer Louise Withers said the new tour would both celebrate the show’s original Australian success and introduce it to a new generation.
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“When Matilda first opened in Australia, audiences embraced it with incredible warmth, joy and emotion. More than one million Australians experienced this extraordinary production, and a decade later it remains one of the most treasured musicals we’re ever had the privilege to produce.
“The beauty of Matilda is that every generation discovers something different within it. Children see possibility, adults rediscover wonder, and facilities share an unforgettable experience together. Its themes of courage, resilience, kindness and standing up for what’s right feel just as meaningful today as ever. We’re thrilled to be introducing this remarkable production to a new generation while welcoming back those who have been waiting to share its magic with family and friends once again.”
Minchin said he was “so, so excited” to see the musical touring Australia again.
“The 2015-17 tour was absolutely brilliant – a genuinely world-class production to rival the West End version (which is now in its 16th year!). Now, a decade later, a whole new batch of incredible Aussie performers and crew and craftspeople will be putting the show on, and a whole new generation of audiences of all ages will have a chance to get a dose of pure joy.”
“Matilda the Musical” follows Matilda Wormwood, a gifted young girl whose intelligence, imagination and determination put her at odds with the adults around her as she learns to stand up against injustice and take control of her own future.
The stage musical has also been adapted for the screen, with the original creative team behind the Netflix film adaptation.
The production features design by Rob Howell, choreography by Peter Darling, orchestrations and additional music by Christopher Nightingale, lighting by Hugh Vanstone, sound by Simon Baker and illusions by Paul Kieve.
The 2027 Australian tour will be produced by Louise Withers, Michael Coppel and Linda Bewick.
“Matilda the Musical” opens at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre from October 2027, with Sydney and Brisbane seasons to follow. A waitlist for priority ticket information and on-sale announcements is now open via the production’s official Australian website.