The Elder Conservatorium’s Bachelor of Music Theatre company is rolling into 2026 with Xanadu as its first major production of the year. Packed with roller skates, high-energy choreography and a whole lot of spirit, this cult favourite promises a joyful start to the season.
Ahead of opening night last night, the students sat down with award-winning creative Michael Ralph, who returns to Xanadu as both director and choreographer. From his early inspirations growing up in New Zealand to the creative joy of developing original work, Michael shares insights into his career, his love for this “rare gem” of a show, and the excitement of guiding a new generation of performers. Read the full interview below.
What has been your favourite musical experience and why?
My favourite musical experience to work on would be SELF, which was an original piece of Dance Theatre that I conceived with composer Jack Earle and performer Rohan Browne. It was an absolute joy to direct and choreograph an idea that was about the journey and challenges of being an artist and not be constricted by a pre-existing script or concept. I loved every moment of the ten months I spent developing and creating it with such an incredible group of dancers and collaborators.
When was the moment you knew you wanted a career in musical theatre?
I grew up in New Zealand. In my teenage years, was fortunate to travel up to Auckland occasionally to see the musicals that would come from Australia. I saw Mamma Mia, Saturday Night Fever, and Dirty Dancing. I was mesmerised by everything onstage and knew I wanted to be a part of it forever.
What is the show you’ve seen/been involved in that shaped you most as an artist?
I would say every show I’ve ever seen or been involved with has shaped me as an artist! Both the good shows and the not-so-good ones. I have learnt so much from every person and every project, so when I step into the next job, I have the lessons I learnt from the other projects to help guide me.
You’ve done a production of Xanadu before. What is it about the show that brings you back?
I have done a production of Xanadu before with another Musical Theatre tertiary course in Melbourne. The show is actually a rare gem of a well-written, successful screen-to-stage adaptation, with excellent songs, and a camp comedic style that is so entertaining to watch. I really enjoy staging it and look forward to doing it again in future.
What has been your favourite part of the rehearsal process so far?
My favourite part of the rehearsal process is actually seeing the progression of the cast’s skating abilities over time. The growth in confidence from day one in the studio to the theatre is really quite remarkable to witness. The cast are performing things they probably never expected they’d be able to do onstage. I enjoy the process of drawing that ability out of them.
What is your most recent dream show that you would like to direct or choreograph?
Recently, a dream show I’ve wanted to direct and choreograph is Hot Shoe Shuffle. I saw the original production in Auckland as a young kid and have always wanted to do a show with a lot of tap dance in it. So it would be a great full-circle moment for me to create my own vision of something that made such a memorable impression on me.
What advice would you give to aspiring artists who long to join the music theatre/performing arts industry?
The best advice I can give to aspiring young performers is that the Musical Theatre industry requires absolute discipline and passion. You have to love it enough to survive the immense highs and challenging lows. Also, versatility as an actor/singer/dancer, with a true understanding of style and the ability to work with others easily, will set you up for success in gaining regular employment.
Written by the students of the Elder Conservatorium Bachelor of Music Theatre program.
Xanadu is on now and runs to 19 April, presented by the 2026 Graduating Class of Elder Conservatorium Music Theatre. Scott Theatre, Adelaide University, Kintore Avenue, Adelaide SA 5000.
Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/xanadu-ecmt
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/elderconmusictheatre/
To learn more about the Music Theatre course, visit the Elder Conservatorium website.
Images supplied.
