Showtime with Andrew G | Theatre Podcast Australia

Finding Power in Identity and Joy in Telling the Truth

A bold new voice has arrived on Melbourne’s cabaret scene with a show that throws out the rulebook on love, identity and what it means to be seen. Asexual Fantasies and Hopeless A-Romantics is a solo journey that blends heartfelt honesty with sharp humour and awkward charm, exploring misunderstood labels, teenage confusion and the joy of self-discovery. Rather than chasing traditional narratives of romance, the show centres on visibility and the quiet power of authenticity, offering audiences a rare and refreshing perspective told with wit, warmth and courage.
 
🎭 Asexual Fantasies and Hopeless Aromantics🗓️  16 Jun to 21 Jun📍 The Butterfly Club 🎟️  https://thebutterflyclub.com/show/asexual-fantasies-and-hopeless-aromantics
 
Sophie Harvey’s Asexual Fantasies and Hopeless A-Romantics is a deeply personal and refreshingly honest cabaret exploring identity, self-discovery and the often overlooked experiences of asexual and aromantic people. Sophie is a musical theatre performer who also happens to be a proud asexual, constantly questioning where she sits on the aromantic spectrum. Through storytelling and song, she takes audiences on a journey from childhood confusion to present-day clarity, using the cabaret form to share what it means to see the world—and the stage—through an aspec lens. Confronted by the lack of representation for aspec identities in the artform she loves, Sophie responds the only way she knows how: with heart, humour and a killer setlist. Featuring an eclectic mix of music ranging from Golden Age soprano to Queen, from indie ballads to contemporary musical theatre, this is an evening of reflection, visibility and celebration that invites audiences to laugh, feel and maybe even see love a little differently.
 
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SHOPIE HARVEY is a 20-year-old Scottish-born, Melbourne-based performer and a recent graduate of Showfit’s full-time musical theatre course. She is currently writing and rehearsing her debut solo cabaret Asexual Fantasies and Hopeless A-Romantics, set to premiere at The Butterfly Club. During her training, Sophie appeared in a range of productions including Dance Nation as Ashlee, Icons as Florence Welch, Constellations (Ensemble), and a student-devised verbatim piece in which she portrayed her own mother. Beyond musical theatre, she has a strong passion for plays and classical text, having twice been shortlisted for the John Bell Shakespeare Scholarship and completing workshops at both The Hub Studio and 16th Street, with a focus on Tennessee Williams and Shakespeare. A self-described “asexual who’s constantly figuring out if she’s somewhere on the aromantic spectrum,” Sophie is thrilled to bring her aspec perspective to the stage and share her story with humour, heart and honesty.

Flying High: Rehearsals, Tap Shoes and the Heart of Mary Poppins

Step behind the curtain with Hannah Simos Garner and Jason Sainsbury King as they bring a fresh spark to the beloved roles of Mary Poppins and Bert in MDMS’s magical new production. From tap shoes to flying umbrellas, they reveal the energy, emotion and teamwork it takes to reimagine a classic for today’s audiences. With heartfelt reflections, playful chemistry and a touch of theatrical magic, this episode of Showtime is a joyful reminder that Mary Poppins is as timeless, inspiring and practically perfect as ever.
🎭 Mary Poppins🗓️  13 June to 22 June📍 The Karralyka Theatre, Ringwood 🎟️  mdms.org.au/marypoppins
MDMS’s production of Mary Poppins is a vibrant and heartfelt retelling of the classic musical that captures the magic, warmth and whimsy audiences have loved for generations. Set in Edwardian London, the story follows the Banks family, whose lives are turned upside down when the mysterious and marvellously poised Mary Poppins arrives at their doorstep. With her signature umbrella, a talking bag and a no-nonsense charm, Mary takes Jane and Michael Banks on extraordinary adventures that help mend the rift within their family.
This production combines stunning choreography, live orchestra, charming performances and theatrical stage magic to create an enchanting experience for audiences of all ages. Hannah Simos Garner brings elegance and gentle strength to the role of Mary Poppins, while Jason Sainsbury King’s charismatic Bert guides the story with wit, warmth and impressive dance talent. From high-energy numbers like “Step in Time” to the moving “Feed the Birds,” each moment is staged with care, creativity and heart.
Complete with flying effects, beautiful costumes and a multigenerational cast, MDMS’s Mary Poppins is a joyful celebration of kindness, imagination and the power of family. A practically perfect musical that reminds us anything can happen if you let it.
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HANNAH SIMOS GARNERPlaying Mary Poppins, a character who famously describes herself as "practically perfect in every way," has been both a tremendous honour and a welcome challenge for Hannah, and one for which she is deeply grateful.
She is currently studying a Bachelor of Music in Classical Voice at the Melbourne Conservatorium, under the guidance of esteemed vocal coach Carrie Barr. Prior to this, she trained and performed for six years with Victorian Opera’s Youth Chorus Ensemble, regularly appearing as a soloist in their gala concerts. Hannah also spent thirteen years with Stage School Australia’s Young Australian Broadway Chorus, where she graduated as a Triple Threat and now teaches voice for the company.
Hannah has been fortunate to receive mentorship from acclaimed performer and vocal coach Anna O’Byrne, and during her school years, from Marianne Rigby. Her musical theatre highlights include Belle in Beauty and the Beast, Miss Honey in Matilda, Jemima in Cats and Mary in The Secret Garden. Her theatre credits include Jane in Jane Eyre and Jo March in Little Women.
With family at the heart of the Mary Poppins story, it has been a joy for Hannah to bring this role to life alongside a generous and talented creative team and cast.
JASON SAINSBURY KING is an experienced performer and musician with over 25 years of involvement in the arts. He began singing and playing guitar from a young age and made his stage debut at age eleven in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat as part of the children's chorus in the ACT.
After relocating to Victoria to pursue his theatrical studies, Jason was awarded a musical theatre grant in 2004, which allowed him to train in stagecraft and performance with lecturers from the Victorian College of the Arts. He has since trained across multiple dance styles including Latin ballroom, jazz, tap, contemporary and aerial.
Jason has performed throughout Victoria and shared the stage with renowned Australian artists such as Todd McKenney and the late Rob Guest. His most notable stage credits include Amos Hart in Chicago, for which he received the Music Theatre Guild of Victoria Award for Best Male Actor in a Supporting Role, Peter Allen in The Boy from Oz, Gomez Addams in The Addams Family (Guild nominated), Adam and Felicia in Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Charlie Price in Kinky Boots, where he met and later married his husband Brodie, and Willy Wonka in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Jason brings passion, humour and musical talent to every role he takes on.

Laila Thaker on Culture, Courage and Craft

Laila Thaker’s journey is one of identity, resilience and powerful storytelling. A proud Torres Strait Islander (Meriam/Wagadagam) and Indian (Ratlamwali) performer, Laila opens up about reconnecting with her heritage and carving out space in the Australian arts scene. In this heartfelt episode of Showtime with Andrew G, she reflects on growing up between cultures, finding her voice through theatre and using her platform to represent and uplift. Currently starring in Super at Red Stitch, Laila speaks about the play’s sharp take on capitalism, care and the quiet strength of women. She also shares how motherhood has shifted her relationship with time, rest and the industry itself. With honesty and warmth, Laila invites us into her world, reminding us that the stories we tell and the way we live them matter. This is a conversation about culture, courage and creativity, led by one of Australia’s most thoughtful emerging voices.
 
🎭 Super🗓️  18 June to 6 July📍 Red Stitch Actors' Theatre 🎟️ redstitch.net
 
Super is a bold and imaginative new work by acclaimed playwright, essayist and poet Emilie Collyer, making its world premiere with Red Stitch Actors’ Theatre. Directed by renowned theatre maker Emma Valente, co-artistic director of THE RABBLE, this original production offers a darkly comic and thought-provoking exploration of power, care and the complexities of female friendship.
The story centres on Phoenix and Nel, two women who meet weekly to support each other and quietly use their superpowers to make the world a better place. Their lives are turned upside down with the arrival of Rae, a charismatic celebrity chef whose ambition and influence propel the pair from secret helpers to global icons. What begins as an exciting transformation soon spirals into chaos, forcing each woman to confront the limits of their abilities and the cost of being extraordinary.
Featuring a dynamic cast including Red Stitch ensemble member Caroline Lee, Lucy Ansell and First Nations actor Laila Thaker, Super delivers a genre-defying theatrical experience. With sharp wit and emotional depth, the play cleverly examines how care is performed and perceived, and what happens when it becomes a commodity.
Commissioned through Red Stitch’s INK development program, Super has evolved over several years into a powerful and highly relevant production. It tackles timely themes with humour and insight, offering audiences a refreshing and subversive take on the superhero narrative. Balancing laugh-out-loud absurdity with moments of genuine poignancy, Super challenges us to consider how far we would go to change the world—and at what cost.
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LAILA THAKER is a proud Torres Strait Islander (Meriam/Wagadagam) and Indian (Ratlamwali) actor known for her bold, authentic storytelling and commitment to meaningful representation. A graduate of James Cook University with a BA in Theatre and a Certificate IV in Film and Television from TAW Brisbane, Laila’s career spans a wide range of work from Shakespeare to Sarah Kane.
Her stage credits include The Return (Malthouse Theatre), Coconut Woman (YIRRAMBOI), and Viral (ILBIJERRI), showcasing her versatility across contemporary and political theatre. On screen, she has appeared in RFDS (Seven), Five Bedrooms (Paramount+), Wentworth (Foxtel), Informer 3838 and Bad Mothers (Nine Network), My Life is Murder (Network Ten), The Queen and I (NITV/ABC), House Husbands (Nine), and the Netflix series Apple Cider Vinegar. Her international screen work includes the US feature films San Andreas and Christmas Downunder.
Laila’s performance in Prayers to Broken Stone (Boutique Theatre) earned her the Melbourne Fringe Award for Best Emerging Indigenous Artist in 2017. As a proud member of ICMEAA, she remains committed to championing First Nations voices and affirming Blak storytelling within the Australian arts landscape.
Laila brings depth, power and cultural integrity to every role she inhabits, continuing to carve out space for diverse narratives in theatre, film and television.

Theatre, Technique and Taking Risks: A Conversation with Josh Direen

From reluctant choir kid in Tasmania to leading man in Melbourne, Josh Direen’s journey to the stage is anything but typical. In this episode of Showtime, Josh opens up about playing Roger in Rent, the role that’s pushed him emotionally, vocally and artistically. He shares how his classical training shaped his performance style, why he nearly walked away from theatre altogether, and what ultimately pulled him back in — community. Josh reflects on the strength of Melbourne’s independent theatre scene, where support, inclusivity and genuine connection keep the spark alive for artists. He also dives into the emotional depth required for Rent, how he balances vulnerability with technique, and why working with an intimacy coordinator has changed how he approaches performance. With honesty and humour, Josh unpacks what artistic bravery really means, how his definition of success has shifted over time, and why embracing risk is key to creative growth. Whether you’re a performer, a theatre lover, or just someone navigating change, this is a powerful conversation about showing up, letting go of perfection, and finding your place — not just onstage, but in the world. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling and the magic of live performance.
🎭 RENT🗓️  13 Jun to 21 Jun 2025📍 Shirley Burke Theatre 🎟️  https://www.aspecttheatre.org.au/
Rent is a groundbreaking rock musical by Jonathan Larson that reimagines Puccini’s La Bohème, setting it in New York City’s East Village during the height of the HIV/AIDS crisis in the late 1980s and early 90s. The story follows a group of struggling young artists and friends navigating love, loss, identity and survival while living under the shadow of poverty and illness. At its heart are characters like Roger, an aspiring musician coming to terms with his HIV diagnosis; Mimi, a dancer battling addiction; and Angel, a drag performer whose joy and generosity inspire those around them.
Told over the course of one year, Rent captures the urgency and fragility of life, challenging its characters to embrace the present and live without regrets. With iconic songs like “Seasons of Love,” “La Vie Bohème” and “One Song Glory,” the show fuses rock, pop and gospel influences with raw, emotional storytelling. Since its premiere in 1996, Rent has become a cultural touchstone, praised for its honest portrayal of marginalised communities and its message of resilience and chosen family. Bold, passionate and deeply human, Rent continues to move audiences with its call to measure life in love rather than time.
 
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JOSH DIREEN is a classically trained performer with a strong foundation in both music and musical theatre. He completed his Bachelor of Music at the UTAS Conservatorium of Music in Tasmania, where he specialised in classical voice. Eager to explore his passion for storytelling through song, Josh moved to Melbourne to study at Patrick School of the Arts, graduating with a Diploma of Musical Theatre. Since then, he has brought his vibrant energy and versatility to stages across the country, particularly in children’s theatre.
His credits include the Chadstone Christmas Stories, where he delighted audiences as Frank the Frog, as well as Treasure Hunt, a national Book Week tour with Perform Education. Josh has also performed in numerous pantomimes with Pantomime Productions, showcasing his comedic timing and strong stage presence. Whether performing for school audiences or taking on emotionally complex roles in musical theatre, Josh brings authenticity, heart and a deep commitment to his craft. With a blend of classical technique and theatrical flair, he continues to grow as a performer, captivating audiences with every role he takes on.

Pete Murphy on Pilate, Power and Performance in Jesus Christ Superstar

Pete Murphy opens up about his role as Pontius Pilate in the Australian tour of Jesus Christ Superstar. Having previously played Jesus in a Scandinavian production, Pete brings a rare dual perspective to the show, allowing him to explore the story’s emotional depth from two vastly different vantage points. In this production, Pilate is portrayed not as a straightforward villain, but as a conflicted, deeply human figure torn between duty and doubt. Pete shares how this interpretation invites audiences to engage with the character in a more nuanced way, making the story feel more immediate and relatable.
He reflects on the show’s powerful ensemble and emotionally charged choreography, praising how the collective energy drives the production. A personal highlight for Pete is hearing “Poor Jerusalem” from backstage each night — a moment that signals his entry and builds anticipation. As the tour prepares to reach his hometown of Brisbane, Pete expresses excitement about performing for family and friends, and pride in being part of such a strong cast. He encourages audiences to see the show before it closes in Melbourne, promising an experience that’s not just entertaining but deeply moving and thought-provoking.
🎭 Jesus Christ Superstar 🗓️ now playing in Melbourne’s Princess Theatre before heading to Brisbane's QPAC on 22 June 🎟️jesuschristsuperstarmusical.com.au
 
Jesus Christ Superstar, the groundbreaking rock opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, debuted as a concept album in 1970, offering a contemporary retelling of Jesus Christ's final days through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. Its innovative blend of rock music and biblical narrative challenged traditional musical theatre norms, leading to its Broadway premiere in 1971 and a West End debut in 1972. The musical's bold approach sparked both acclaim and controversy, solidifying its place in theatrical history.
In Australia, the show made a significant impact with its original production opening at Sydney's Capitol Theatre in May 1972, followed by a Melbourne season at the Palais Theatre and other cities, playing for more than 700 performances. 
The 1992 Australian arena tour elevated the musical's profile, featuring a star-studded cast including John Farnham as Jesus, Jon Stevens as Judas, Kate Ceberano as Mary Magdalene, and Angry Anderson as King Herod. This production was a phenomenal success, with the official cast recording CD debuting at #1 and remaining at the top for 10 weeks, achieving 4× Platinum status and winning 'Highest Selling Album' at the 1993 ARIA Awards.
In 2024, Jesus Christ Superstar returned to Australia with a reimagined production directed by Timothy Sheader, originally staged at London's Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. This version, which won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival, opened at Sydney's Capitol Theatre in November 2024, marking a full-circle moment for the show in Australia. The tour featured Michael Paynter as Jesus, Javon King as Judas, Mahalia Barnes as Mary, and Peter Murphy as Pontius Pilate, and continued to Melbourne's Princess Theatre and other cities. 
Over five decades, Jesus Christ Superstar has continually evolved, captivating audiences with its powerful music and timeless themes. Its enduring legacy in Australia reflects the nation's deep appreciation for this revolutionary musical.
 
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PETE MURPHY is a seasoned Australian performer with over two decades of experience in musical theatre and live concerts across Australia and internationally. His career highlights include starring as Galileo in We Will Rock You in both London and Japan, portraying Jesus in the Scandinavian tour of Jesus Christ Superstar, and playing Nick Piazza in Fame. He has also been a featured vocalist in productions such as Thriller – Live and Burn the Floor, and has participated in Australian tours of Les Misérables, Rent, and Shout! 
In the current Australian tour of Jesus Christ Superstar, Murphy takes on the role of Pontius Pilate, bringing a nuanced and humanised portrayal to the character. His extensive experience and dynamic stage presence contribute significantly to the production's fresh and bold interpretation of the classic rock musical.
Pete’s diverse background in both dramatic and musical roles showcases his versatility and commitment to his craft, making him a standout performer in the Australian theatre scene. His contributions continue to enrich the performing arts landscape, captivating audiences with each performance.

Triple Threat on the Rise: Emily Toby Shines in Mamma Mia

Emily Toby lights up the latest episode of the Showtime podcast with heart, humour and honesty as she takes us behind the scenes of her starring role as Sophie in Mamma Mia with Windmill Theatre Company. A gifted triple threat, Emily shares how her passion for performing was sparked in community theatre and has since grown into a dynamic career that includes teaching at the Australian Girls Choir and studying at university. She opens up about the thrill and pressure of playing such an iconic character, finding fresh layers of vulnerability and strength in Sophie’s journey of self-discovery, family and identity.
Balancing rehearsals, teaching and study, Emily speaks candidly about the discipline it takes to protect her vocal health and stay energised—lessons she passes on to her students with a focus on joy over perfection. Her deep respect for the collaborative spirit of theatre shines through, especially her admiration for co-star Stephanie as Donna. With favourite ABBA moments like “Under Attack” and “Dancing Queen”, Emily captures the emotional range and timeless magic of Mamma Mia. Her story is a celebration of community, creativity and connection—a joyful reminder of why theatre continues to resonate so powerfully.
 
🎭 MAMMA MIA!🗓️  7 June to 21 June📍 BUNJIL PLACE THEATRE 🎟️  windmilltheatre.com.au/mammamia
Windmill Theatre Company’s 2025 production of Mamma Mia bursts onto the stage with infectious energy, vibrant storytelling and a heartfelt sense of community. Set against the sunny backdrop of a Greek island and fuelled by the timeless hits of ABBA, this joyful musical follows Sophie, a young woman on the brink of marriage, as she secretly invites three men from her mother Donna’s past in the hopes of discovering her father’s identity.
Directed with warmth and flair, the production balances comedy and emotion with seamless transitions between showstopping ensemble numbers and intimate character moments. Emily Toby shines in the role of Sophie, bringing both youthful charm and emotional depth to a character navigating love, identity and family. Stephanie delivers a standout performance as Donna, anchoring the show with powerful vocals and vulnerability.
From high energy numbers like “Voulez Vous” and “Gimme Gimme Gimme” to moving ballads like “Slipping Through My Fingers”, the show is packed with colour, heart and nostalgia. With polished choreography, strong vocal performances and a creative team that honours the material while adding fresh life, Windmill’s Mamma Mia is a celebration of connection, forgiveness and empowerment. It is a feel good night of theatre that leaves the audience dancing out the door.
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EMILIE TOBY is a Melbourne-based performer, vocalist and educator with a passion for storytelling and community through the arts. A true triple threat, Emilie has trained extensively in singing, acting and dance, and continues to build a dynamic career that spans the stage and the classroom. She is currently starring as Sophie in Windmill Theatre Company’s 2025 production of Mamma Mia, where she brings a fresh, heartfelt take to the iconic role.
Emilie’s journey in theatre began with school and community productions, where she quickly fell in love with the collaborative spirit of the performing arts. Alongside her performance work, she teaches with the Australian Girls Choir and is completing a university degree, balancing her love of teaching with her dedication to her craft. Her experience as both a performer and educator gives her a unique insight into vocal health, character development and the importance of joy and connection in the creative process.
Driven by a strong sense of purpose and grounded in authenticity, Emilie is admired by peers and students alike for her warmth, professionalism and generosity. Whether on stage or in the studio, she is committed to creating work that is meaningful, empowering and full of heart.

Superstar Moments: Mahalia Barnes on Passion, Pressure and Performance

Mahalia Barnes reflects on a life steeped in music, from her formative years growing up in a legendary Australian music family to her bold leap into musical theatre with Jesus Christ Superstar. With no formal training but an unshakable passion for soul and blues, she carved out a distinct artistic voice grounded in authenticity, collaboration and emotional connection. Mahalia speaks candidly about the pressures of legacy, the discipline of theatre, and the joy of live performance, offering a rare and honest glimpse into the evolving journey of a performer who remains deeply committed to her craft and true to her sound.
🎭 Jesus Christ Superstar 🗓️ now playing in Melbourne’s Princess Theatre, then QPAC Brisbane from 22 June🎟️jesuschristsuperstarmusical.com.au
The 2025 Australian touring production of Jesus Christ Superstar is delivering a thrilling reimagining of the iconic rock opera to audiences around the country. Based on the acclaimed Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre staging, this bold and contemporary version features a standout cast including Michael Paynter as Jesus, Javon King as Judas, Mahalia Barnes as Mary Magdalene, and Peter Murphy as Pilate. With direction by Timothy Sheader and choreography by Drew McOnie, the production brings concert-like intensity to the stage while honouring the timeless score by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Audiences are treated to powerful renditions of songs like I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Gethsemane and Superstar, with raw emotion and vocal brilliance on full display. After its Melbourne season at the Princess Theatre concludes on 22 June, the production will head to Brisbane and Perth, continuing to captivate theatregoers with its high energy and emotional impact.
 
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MAHALIA BARNES is one of Australia’s most powerful and authentic vocalists, known for her commanding voice, soulful style and raw emotional honesty on stage. The daughter of iconic rock singer Jimmy Barnes, Mahalia grew up surrounded by music, touring and performing from a young age. Rather than resting on her family name, she forged her own path, developing a distinctive sound rooted in blues, soul and gospel influences.
Without formal vocal training, Mahalia refined her voice through years of passionate self-practice, drawing inspiration from artists like Lorraine Ellison and Aretha Franklin. Her career has spanned multiple solo albums, international collaborations, and countless live performances that showcase her deep musicality and connection with audiences.
In recent years, Mahalia has expanded into musical theatre, making her debut as Mary in Jesus Christ Superstar, a role that challenged and inspired her in new creative ways. Whether on stage with her band or in a theatrical production, she brings honesty, energy and an unmistakable voice that sets her apart.
Beyond her work as a performer, Mahalia is a dedicated collaborator and mentor within the music community, committed to creating meaningful experiences through music and staying true to the artistry that has defined her journey.

Stage by Stage: Carol Shelbourne’s 93 Productions and Counting

When Carol Shelbourne stepped into a rehearsal room for the very first time at 38, she had no idea she was about to begin a lifelong love affair with the stage. Nearly 100 shows later, she’s become a familiar face in Melbourne’s vibrant community theatre scene, known for her warmth, wit and magnetic presence. In this episode of Showtime, Carol joins Andrew G to share the unexpected twists that led her from the UK to a full and joyful life in Australian theatre — proving it’s never too late to find your spotlight.
🎭 Two one act plays: Lady of Letters/The Rats🗓️  Friday 30 May to Saturday 7 June 2025📍 Brighton Theatre Company 🎟️  brightontheatre.com.au
This winter, Brighton Theatre Company presents an evening of intrigue and insight with two compelling one-act plays.
LADY OF LETTERS by Alan Bennett, directed by Deborah Fabbro, is one of the original and much-loved Talking Heads monologues. It follows Irene Ruddock, a woman with a sharp eye and a sharper pen, who fills her days firing off letters to anyone she deems at fault. But when the authorities come knocking, it’s Irene who finds herself on the receiving end — leading to unexpected consequences and a surprising sense of connection.
THE RATS by Agatha Christie, directed by Annie Blood, delivers a twist-filled mystery from the undisputed Queen of Crime. Set in a chic Hampstead flat in the early 1960s, a group of guests are lured to the scene by mysterious messages. What starts as a seemingly harmless mix-up quickly spirals into a sinister game when two guests are locked inside — and framed for murder.
Together, these two sharply written pieces promise a night of gripping theatre full of drama, humour and suspense.
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CAROL SHELBOURNE arrived in Australia from the UK in 1980 with her husband and two children. After spending four years as a dedicated Cub Scout Leader, she joined Brighton Theatre Company in 1985 — the same year she stepped onto the stage for the first time in White Sheep of the Family.
Before moving to Australia, Carol had dabbled in performance as part of a folk duo in the UK during the 1970s and had taken part in a few community revues. What began as a hobby soon blossomed into a lifelong passion. Since that first production, Carol has performed in 93 shows across Melbourne’s rich community theatre scene, working with companies including Brighton, Malvern, Peridot, Heidelberg, 1812, Waverley and Beaumaris.

Growing Together: How Inclusive Theatre Builds Lifelong Connections

Julia Grace, whose recent performance in Red Stitch’s The Comeuppance has drawn praise for its emotional depth and raw honesty. Our conversation unpacks her creative journey, one that began not from a grand childhood dream of stardom but from a simple desire to connect. As a kid, Julia admits she felt out of place during school lunchtimes and was often looking for somewhere she felt she belonged. That search led her to audition for a school play on a whim, which in turn opened the door to a world she had never expected to enter: acting.
🎭 The Comeuppance🗓️  30 April to 25 May📍 Red Stitch Actors’ Theatre 🎟️  redstitch.net
The Australian premiere of The Comeuppance, a masterful new work by acclaimed American playwright Branden Jacobs Jenkins, is set to captivate audiences at Red Stitch. Described by The Stage as his “third masterpiece”, Jacobs Jenkins is known for bold and provocative works including Girls, Everybody, War, Gloria, Appropriate, An Octoroon and Neighbors.
Following its acclaimed world premiere at Off-Broadway’s Signature Theatre, this haunting, darkly comic and strikingly relevant play will be directed by multi-award winning Gary Abrahams. With celebrated productions such as Iphigenia in Splott at Red Stitch, Yentl at Arts Centre Melbourne, and Admissions with Melbourne Theatre Company, Abrahams returns to Red Stitch to bring this compelling new story to life.
The Comeuppance centres on five former classmates reuniting on the night of their 20-year high school reunion. What begins as an evening of laughter and shared memories soon unravels into confrontation and reflection, as long-held secrets surface and the presence of mortality casts a shadow over the gathering. With unflinching honesty and emotional depth, the play explores friendship, identity and the inescapable passage of time.
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JULIA GRACE is an accomplished actor, teacher and director’s consultant who has worked across Australia, New Zealand and the United States for more than fifteen years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Sydney and a Bachelor of Dramatic Art from the Victorian College of the Arts. Julia is also a graduate of the School at Steppenwolf in Chicago, where she completed a mentorship in teacher training. In 2017, she was awarded the 16th Street Foundation’s Teaching Scholarship, allowing her to further develop her teaching practice in the United States.
Julia is currently a core teacher at 16th Street Actors Studio in Melbourne and also teaches sessionally at the VCA Drama School. As a performer, she has worked with companies including the Sydney International Arts Festival, Melbourne Theatre Company, Darlinghurst Theatre Company, The Hayloft Project and Red Stitch Actors Theatre. Her screen credits include Offspring, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, Love Me and numerous commercial campaigns. In 2018, her original work Turtle, which she wrote and performed, was nominated for Best Performance at the Melbourne Fringe Festival.

Growing Together: How Inclusive Theatre Builds Lifelong Connections

In 2005, Greta Punch walked into a Holiday Actors audition just to support a friend—but ended up landing a role in The Music Man. That spontaneous moment sparked a lifelong love for theatre, shaping her identity through creativity, connection, and community. For Greta, the stage became more than a place to perform—it became home. Paul Venzo’s journey began with uncertainty, unsure if he’d fit in. But the welcoming spirit of Holiday Actors changed everything. Theatre quickly became a safe haven, where misfits found their tribe and lasting friendships were formed. Those early experiences laid the groundwork for Paul’s career as a university educator, with skills like empathy, collaboration, and confidence tracing back to his time on stage. Both Greta and Paul are now part of the 40th anniversary production of Come From Away, celebrating the legacy of a company that continues to change lives through the power of performance and community.
🎭 Come From Away🗓️  14 May 2025 to 18 May 2025📍 Lighthouse Theatre, Warrnambool🎟️  https://www.holidayactors.com.au
 
Holiday Actors' 40th Anniversary production of Come From Away is a heartfelt celebration of community, compassion, and the enduring spirit of theatre. Running from May 14 to 18, 2025, at the Lighthouse Theatre in Warrnambool, this special staging unites past and present members of the company—performers, musicians, and crew—who have contributed to its vibrant legacy over four decades .
The production features two dynamic casts, Yellow and Blue, each delivering three performances. This dual-cast approach not only showcases the depth of talent within Holiday Actors but also embodies the musical's core themes of unity and generosity .
Come From Away recounts the true story of 7,000 airline passengers stranded in Gander, Newfoundland, following the events of 9/11, and the small town that welcomed them with open arms. With its uplifting Celtic-inspired score and ensemble-driven storytelling, the musical transforms a moment of global tragedy into a testament to human kindness and resilience.
This anniversary production stands as a tribute to Holiday Actors' enduring impact on the arts and its commitment to storytelling that bridges generations and communities.
 
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GRETA PUNCH has been a vital part of the Holiday Actors family since 2005, when she made her debut with just one line—but delivered it like a pro. Since then, she’s played everything from bold comic relief to powerful leading roles, always bringing energy, honesty, and heart to the stage.
Offstage, Greta is just as passionate. She’s directed, co-directed, photographed, designed, built puppets, run marketing—you name it. Her creativity and generosity have shaped countless productions, and her collaborative spirit makes her a go-to team member.
This year, Greta steps into a role that couldn’t be a better fit: someone deeply instinctual, compassionate, and committed to protecting animals. She jokes she’d happily climb into a cargo hold to rescue a cat—and you believe her.
When she’s not on stage, Greta teaches art at One Day Studios and brings stories to life through photography and design. She sends love to her mum, Janet, whose costume wizardry has lit up Holiday Actors for decades.
 
PAUL VENZO was there from the very start—at the very first meeting that would spark the creation of Holiday Actors. It took a little time for him to step into the spotlight, but once he did, he found his place. Over the years, Paul has built lasting friendships, treasured memories, and a strong sense of home within the company. He’s especially grateful to Sharyn Burns, whose encouragement gave him the nudge he needed to begin.
Since then, Paul has embraced a wide range of roles—from sharp-witted comedy to thoughtful, layered performances—and taken on challenges behind the scenes and in the director’s chair.
In Come From Away, he’s energised by the show’s rapid pace and clever storytelling, where actors switch roles in the blink of an eye. He’s also ready to tackle its physical demands—especially a certain fish prop moment that promises to keep everyone on their toes!
Outside of theatre, Paul recently appeared in the upcoming feature film The Returned (2025).