Showtime with Andrew G | Theatre Podcast Australia

From Hobart to Harvard: Emily McDougall Shines as Elle Woods

Emily McDougall is lighting up the stage as Elle Woods in Legally Blonde at the National Theatre, but her journey started far from the bright lights of Melbourne. Born and raised in Hobart, Emily’s love for musical theatre began at just 10 years old in a school production. That early spark turned into a fierce passion, eventually taking her to Federation University, where she trained, performed and even co-wrote a musical inspired by the emotional aftermath of the pandemic. Now, as Elle, she brings depth, warmth and strength to a character she has loved for years. Emily’s journey is one of resilience, creativity and heart. She speaks openly about the highs and challenges of working in the arts, and how staying connected to community, training and joy helps her navigate a demanding industry. Through Legally Blonde, she explores the power of breaking stereotypes, embracing complexity and telling stories that inspire audiences to see themselves on stage. Whether she is writing original work or bringing Elle Woods to life, Emily reminds us that theatre is not just about performance. It is about passion, growth and creating moments that last long after the final bow.
🎭 Legally Blonde📍National Theatre St Kilda🗓️ 12 to 27 July🎟️ booktickets.com.au
Legally Blonde the Musical is lighting up Melbourne with high energy, big laughs and even bigger heart. Based on the hit film, this feel good stage sensation follows Elle Woods, a fashion loving sorority queen who swaps pink heels for legal briefs when she enrols at Harvard Law to win back her ex. But along the way, Elle discovers her true strength, smashing stereotypes and proving that being true to yourself never goes out of style.
Packed with catchy songs, slick choreography and a whole lot of charm, Legally Blonde is more than just a pretty pink musical. It’s a joyful celebration of self confidence, resilience and friendship. From courtroom showdowns to Delta Nu dance breaks, every moment is bursting with colour, humour and heart.
This Melbourne production brings a fresh and fabulous take on the Broadway hit, featuring a standout cast of rising stars and scene stealing child performers. Audiences of all ages are loving the infectious energy, dazzling design and empowering message that you don’t need to change who you are to make a difference.
Whether you're a die hard fan or new to Elle's journey, Legally Blonde is the must see musical event of the season.
 
🤠For the latest theatre updates and behind-the-scenes insights, follow me on Instagram https://instagram.com/AndrewGShowtime
EMILY MCDOUGALL is a dynamic musical theatre performer originally from Hobart, now based in Melbourne. She discovered her love for performing at just 10 years old in a school musical, a moment that sparked a lifelong passion for the stage. Emily trained at Federation University, where she honed her craft across acting, singing and dance, and also co-wrote an original musical exploring themes of grief and disconnection during the pandemic. Her approach to performance is grounded in authenticity, emotional depth and a deep respect for storytelling. Emily is currently starring as Elle Woods in Legally Blonde at the National Theatre, bringing warmth, strength and nuance to a character she has long admired. Offstage, she remains active in the arts community through ongoing training and creative collaboration. Emily is passionate about work that challenges expectations, celebrates complexity and inspires audiences to see themselves reflected on stage.

Three Little Pigs, One Big Message: Love, Laughter and Family

What do you get when you mix fairy tale pigs, big vocals and stand-up comedy timing? A children’s musical that’s as clever as it is hilarious. In this episode of the Showtime podcast, Andrew sits down with Zack, Isabelle and Ben, the trio behind The Three Little Pigs, to chat about turning a well-worn story into a high-energy stage hit. With fresh characters, catchy tunes and a whole lot of heart, this production proves that kids’ theatre can be just as bold, brilliant and entertaining as anything on the main stage.
🎭 Legally Blonde📍National Theatre St Kilda🗓️ 12 to 27 July🎟️ booktickets.com.au
Stiles and Drewe’s The Three Little Pigs is a clever, high-energy twist on the classic tale, created by the award-winning team behind Mary Poppins and Honk!. Packed with catchy songs, colourful characters and playful humour, this short musical is designed to delight children and entertain the adults who bring them.
In this version, the three pigs each have unique personalities—a fitness fanatic, an eco-warrior and a brainy designer—and their journey away from home becomes a fun, fast-paced lesson in resilience and teamwork. The Big Bad Wolf brings just enough mischief to keep things exciting without being scary.
With a running time under an hour, the show is perfect for young audiences, offering big laughs, toe-tapping tunes and a heartwarming message about family and finding your strength. It is a joyful introduction to theatre that proves children’s musicals can be just as smart and satisfying as any grown-up show.
 
🤠For the latest theatre updates and behind-the-scenes insights, follow me on Instagram https://instagram.com/AndrewGShowtime
ZAKARIA VASILIOU is a comedian and musical theatre performer with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Music Theatre) from the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA). His debut stand-up show Twinky Twinky Little Star played to sold-out audiences at the Adelaide Fringe and Melbourne International Comedy Festival, earning rave reviews and an Adelaide Fringe Emerging Artist Award.
On stage, Zak has performed in a range of productions including Mongrel (dir. Maude Davey), The Hello Girls (dir. Jason Langley), Sweet Charity (dir. Jayde Kirchert), Chicago (dir. Adrian Barnes), and Ivy and Bean (dir. Sarah Williams).
He is thrilled to return as Q in Stiles and Drewe’s The 3 Little Pigs after originating the role in the 2024 Australian premiere directed by Tahra Cannon. Known for blending sharp comedic instincts with heartfelt storytelling, Zak brings energy, humour and originality to every role he plays.
ISABELE DAVIS Davis is a Melbourne-born, Shanghai-raised singer, songwriter and performer. After completing a Bachelor of Arts in Music Theatre at WAAPA in 2019, she has dedicated her creative energy to writing, releasing and performing original music across Victoria. Her recent theatre credits include Romeo and Juliet and Outback Adventures (M.S.C), Share House: The Musical (Arts Centre Melbourne), and Ordinary Days (Be You).
Isabelle is also the voice of Talia Wick on Find Me, the theme song for the award-winning audio drama The Realm Tree. She recently released the first two singles from her debut album An Inconvenient Youth, with the full album set to launch in August this year.
Isabelle is excited to return to The 3 Little Pigs this July, sharing her love of storytelling, music and live performance with young audiences once again.
BEN HAMILTON is delighted to return to the stage in this vibrant production of The Three Little Pigs. He is currently studying full-time at Showfit, where he continues to develop his skills in singing, acting and dance, and deepen his passion for musical theatre.
Ben has a natural flair for entertaining young audiences and regularly works in children’s entertainment, bringing energy, fun and creativity to every performance. His warm presence and playful spirit make him a hit with kids and families alike.
He is thrilled to be part of this joyful and imaginative show, and looks forward to sharing the stage with such a talented cast and crew. The Three Little Pigs is a story full of heart, humour and important lessons about family and resilience, and Ben is excited to help bring it to life for audiences these July school holidays.

Heart and Humour: Jackson Cross Brings Emmett to Life

Jackson Cross shares his creative journey from Geelong’s vibrant arts community to the main stage at Melbourne’s National Theatre. Now starring as Emmett in Legally Blonde, Jackson reflects on how a high school music teacher helped him rediscover his love for performing and embrace his identity as a queer artist. After years playing in an indie rock band, he returned to theatre with fresh purpose, combining musical skill with emotional truth.
Revisiting the role of Emmett, Jackson brings honesty, warmth and quiet strength to the character. He sees Legally Blonde as more than a feel-good musical. It is a celebration of confidence, kindness and defying expectations. His personal experiences with ADHD and self-discovery mirror the themes of the show, making his performance feel real and deeply relatable.
With a passion for curiosity, a love of learning and an infectious sense of joy, Jackson speaks openly about the power of community, creativity and staying true to yourself. His story is a reminder that theatre is not just about performance. It is about connection, growth and giving others the courage to shine in their own way.
🎭 Legally Blonde📍National Theatre St Kilda🗓️ 12 to 27 July🎟️ booktickets.com.au
Legally Blonde the Musical is lighting up Melbourne with high energy, big laughs and even bigger heart. Based on the hit film, this feel good stage sensation follows Elle Woods, a fashion loving sorority queen who swaps pink heels for legal briefs when she enrols at Harvard Law to win back her ex. But along the way, Elle discovers her true strength, smashing stereotypes and proving that being true to yourself never goes out of style.
Packed with catchy songs, slick choreography and a whole lot of charm, Legally Blonde is more than just a pretty pink musical. It’s a joyful celebration of self confidence, resilience and friendship. From courtroom showdowns to Delta Nu dance breaks, every moment is bursting with colour, humour and heart.
This Melbourne production brings a fresh and fabulous take on the Broadway hit, featuring a standout cast of rising stars and scene stealing child performers. Audiences of all ages are loving the infectious energy, dazzling design and empowering message that you don’t need to change who you are to make a difference.
Whether you're a die hard fan or new to Elle's journey, Legally Blonde is the must see musical event of the season.
🤠For the latest theatre updates and behind-the-scenes insights, follow me on Instagram https://instagram.com/AndrewGShowtime
JACKSON CROSS is a passionate and energetic performer with a deep love for storytelling. He began his theatre journey at Federation University, graduating with the class of 2022. Since then, he has developed a strong interest in new works, regularly participating in workshops and developmental projects. His credits include performances in several new Australian musicals, including The White Rose by Oliver Thomson and Isabella Dymalovski, Fresno by Jeremy Harland and Josh Connell, A Wake to Remember by Samantha Wong, and the Green Room Award winning Blue to the Horizon by Sarah Wynen.
Over the past two summers, Jackson has performed with Melbourne Shakespeare Company in their outdoor seasons, playing Lorenzo in The Merchant of Venice and Borachio in Much Ado About Nothing, while also contributing musically to both productions.
He is now excited to return to the role of Emmett in Legally Blonde with Theatrical, the very first role he ever performed on stage, now revisited with new perspective and enthusiasm.

Backing Local: How the Palais Theatre Supports Community Projects

Lloyd Jones, a powerhouse in the Australian live entertainment scene, shares his passion for iconic venues like Melbourne’s Palais Theatre in this unforgettable episode of Showtime with Andrew G. From childhood memories of John Farnham to leading major restorations, Lloyd reveals how venues are more than stages. They are cultural landmarks filled with shared history. He champions the Palais Theatre Community Fund, which reinvests 50 cents from every ticket sold into grassroots projects across the City of Port Phillip. From olive oil to youth theatre, the fund is changing lives. With warmth, insight and decades of experience, Lloyd shows how historic venues can thrive commercially while remaining vital to the community. This episode is a love letter to live music, memory and meaningful impact.
 
🎭 Palais Theatre Community Fund🗓️ Round 12: Closes 4 July💰palaistheatre.com.au/community-support
The Palais Theatre Community Fund supports local organisations and initiatives that contribute to the cultural and social life of the City of Port Phillip. Created through a partnership between Live Nation and the local council, the fund allocates a portion of every ticket sold to help community projects grow. It has supported a broad range of recipients, from local arts groups and schools to environmental programs and sporting clubs. The aim is to strengthen connections, encourage participation and help local ideas take shape. The fund reflects the important role the Palais Theatre plays not just as a venue, but as part of the local community.
 
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LLOYD JONES is a venue operations leader, storyteller and lifelong music fan with over two decades of experience across live events, television, film and exhibitions. He currently leads operations for Venue Nation Australia, managing iconic spaces like the Palais Theatre, Festival Hall and Fortitude Music Hall.
Originally from Sydney, Lloyd has worked across Australia and Asia, including a recent role in Bangkok with Live Nation Asia. He is passionate about the way music, places and people connect, and brings a storyteller’s eye to every project. Also a published author under the name Edwin Jones, Lloyd continues to chase great stories, live shows and a good meal wherever he goes.

The Delta Nu trio bringing sparkle and soul to Legally Blonde

Get ready to bend and snap your expectations because this is not your average sorority story. In Legally Blonde the Musical, Georgina Scott, Vanessa Yeo and Taya Patterson-Fay light up the stage as the Delta Nu trio, but behind the sequins and sass is a celebration of sisterhood, resilience and self belief. Their offstage bond fuels performances that are as heartfelt as they are hilarious, proving that when women support each other, the result is pure theatrical magic.
 
🎭 Legally Blonde📍National Theatre St Kilda🗓️ 12 to 27 July🎟️ booktickets.com.au
 
Legally Blonde the Musical is lighting up Melbourne with high energy, big laughs and even bigger heart. Based on the hit film, this feel good stage sensation follows Elle Woods, a fashion loving sorority queen who swaps pink heels for legal briefs when she enrols at Harvard Law to win back her ex. But along the way, Elle discovers her true strength, smashing stereotypes and proving that being true to yourself never goes out of style.
Packed with catchy songs, slick choreography and a whole lot of charm, Legally Blonde is more than just a pretty pink musical. It’s a joyful celebration of self confidence, resilience and friendship. From courtroom showdowns to Delta Nu dance breaks, every moment is bursting with colour, humour and heart.
This Melbourne production brings a fresh and fabulous take on the Broadway hit, featuring a standout cast of rising stars and scene stealing child performers. Audiences of all ages are loving the infectious energy, dazzling design and empowering message that you don’t need to change who you are to make a difference.
Whether you're a die hard fan or new to Elle's journey, Legally Blonde is the must see musical event of the season.
 
🤠For the latest theatre updates and behind-the-scenes insights, follow me on Instagram https://instagram.com/AndrewGShowtime
GEORGINA SCOTT is a New Zealand-born, Naarm/Melbourne-based performer working across theatre, screen, and immersive entertainment. She trained at Jason Coleman’s Ministry of Dance, completing a Diploma of Music Theatre and a Certificate III in Dance Teaching and Management.
Recent credits include Time Warped: A Rocky Horror Dinner Show (Magenta) and lead roles in the short films Kiss Me Charlie (Charlie) and Cornered Angels (Sunsta). Georgina has also collaborated with Hunted Interactive Experience and appeared in a range of music videos and television commercials.
She is a full-time member of Chris Nolan’s vocal studio and recently completed the 10-week Essentials Acting Course with the Howard Fine Acting Studio.
TAEA PATTERSON-FAHY is a Melbourne-based performer, recently relocated from Brisbane. She is a graduate of the Queensland College of Dance, where she completed an Advanced Diploma of Musical Theatre and played the lead role of Alice in Alice by Heart.
Originally from Alice Springs, Taea spent her early years immersed in the vibrant community of Central Australia before moving to Brisbane, where she continued her training. Raised in a proud rainbow family by her two mums, Taea grew up with a deep appreciation for storytelling, self-expression, and inclusion.
She began performing at the age of three and is thrilled to make her Melbourne stage debut with this production.
 
VANESSA YEO, originally from the jungles of Borneo, is thrilled to make her musical theatre debut in Legally Blonde. A former industrial abseiler — yes, she really used to hang off skyscrapers on ropes — Vanessa brings boldness and tenacity to the stage, drawing on a unique performance background that includes martial arts, burlesque, belly dance, gymnastics, and singing in an Argentinian Cumbia band.
She left the high-rises behind to pursue full-time training at Jason Coleman’s Ministry of Dance, where she is currently completing a Diploma of Musical Theatre.
Vanessa is excited to share this next chapter of her creative journey with Melbourne audiences.

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.
🤠For the latest theatre updates and behind-the-scenes insights, follow me on Instagram https://instagram.com/AndrewGShowtime
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.
🤠For the latest theatre updates and behind-the-scenes insights, follow me on Instagram AndrewGShowtime
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.