One of the most influential theatrical works of the 21st century, seen by over one million people worldwide and translated into more than 30 languages, Prima Facie returns to Australian stages in a landmark homecoming season. Playing limited seasons in Sydney and Melbourne, the original Griffin Theatre Company production returns to Australian mainstages from 20 May 2026.
Written by Lawrence Olivier Award-winning Australian playwright Suzie Miller, one of the most internationally produced playwrights of her generation, Sheridan Harbridge will return to the role she originated – the performance that ignited a global theatrical phenomenon – under the direction of Lee Lewis.
Prima Facie premiered at Sydney’s Griffin Theatre Company in 2019, emerging from the Griffin Award for new Australian writing before touring nationally and rapidly expanding onto the international stage. The production moved from an intimate Kings Cross theatre to global acclaim, becoming one of the most produced contemporary plays of the 21st century.
Prima Facie follows Tessa, a criminal lawyer at the top of her game. She’s a winner who knows the law permits no room for emotion – even in cases of sexual assault. But when Tessa finds herself on the other side of the bar, everything she knew about the law comes into question.
Since its premiere, Prima Facie has been translated into more than 30 languages and staged across Europe, the UK, the US, Asia and South America. It culminated in record-breaking West End and Broadway seasons starring Jodie Comer and a forthcoming major screen adaptation starring Cynthia Erivo.
The Olivier and Tony Award-winning play has been widely praised for its emotional force and global impact, exploring themes of law, justice, gender and power with urgent relevance.
Writer Suzie Miller said:
“I couldn’t be more thrilled to bring the original production of Prima Facie back to the stage with Lee Lewis and Sheridan Harbridge. I am forever grateful for the talent and courage of these phenomenal Australian creatives.
Harbridge’s iconic performance of Tessa is carried in my heart, and has inspired productions in over 50 other countries! The joy of seeing her play Tessa Ensler again is, for me, immeasurable.”
Award winning performer Sheridan Harbridge said:
“Prima Facie shot out of a tiny theatre in Kings Cross like a lightning bolt, igniting conversation about the justice system that spread around the globe. “Theatre of change is a special rare bird, and it began in Australia. What an honour to bring back the show that ignited a flame that’s still burning bright.”
Prima Facie is a partnership between Griffin Theatre Company and Andrew Henry Presents. Co-producer Andrew Henry, described the return as a defining moment of cultural recognition:
“Australia does not often pause to celebrate its great cultural exports while they are still shaping the world. Prima Facie is one of the most significant theatrical works ever to come out of this country. This season is about honouring that achievement, not chasing it, not remaking it, but acknowledging where it began, and the artists who carried it into the world.”
Artistic Director & Co-CEO of Griffin Theatre Company, Declan Greene said:
“Prima Facie was the play that only Suzie could write. The culmination of her years of legal practice, her astonishing craft as a playwright, and moment of white-hot fury that ignited a blaze across the globe.
Alongside Andrew Henry Presents, it’s a thrill to celebrate the powerhouse team that launched this cultural landmark from Griffin’s tiny 105-seat theatre—Suzie Miller, Lee Lewis and the original Tessa, Sheridan Harbridge.”
This return season is the original production, returned intact… the voice, the performance and the staging that ignited a global phenomenon.
Prima Facie is presented by Griffin Theatre Company and Andrew Henry Presents. It runs for limited seasons in Melbourne from 20 May and Sydney from 3 June 2026.
Tickets for Sydney are on sale Thursday 19 February. Tickets for Melbourne are on sale Friday 27 February.
Website: https://primafacieplay.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/primafacieaustralia/
Hero image photo credit: Brett Boardman
2026 Australian Tour Dates:
Melbourne from 20 May, Comedy Theatre
Sydney from 3 June, Roslyn Packer Theatre
Running time: 90 minutes. No interval. Age guidance: Recommended for Audiences 14+
CONTENT WARNING: This production contains coarse language and strong themes of sexual assault.
