Barbra Streisand is an icon of the performing arts world with a dazzling career that spans over six decades across music, theatre and screen. Hayes Theatre Co have opened their 2026 season with an immaculate homage to her extraordinary talent in Barbra: The Greatest Star. It’s a show filled with all the humour and heart that the star is renowned for.
As director, Brittanie Shipway has curated a show that blends the magnificence of the Streisand songbook with moments of lovely personal reflection. The impact Babs has had on generations of performers can be deeply felt.
Every moment of the show feels like a joyous celebration amongst friends, with the emotional arcs of each number perfectly captured by the performers.
The sets, under designer Brendan De La Hay, are the perfect ode to the glitz and glamour that followed Barbra’s career. Gorgeous floral arrangements by stylist Pia Andersen complement velvet curtains and portraits of the star herself framing the space.
I loved the detail that went into the costuming with jewelled accessories, fabulous, feathered robes and tulle boas adding delightful character to different numbers.
Nicholas Gentile, as musical director, has perfectly captured the iconic Streisand musicality in his arrangements. Every piece embodies the immense love and respect that the artists have for the material.
Nicholas also performs a duet with director and cast member Brittanie Shipway; their vocals are glorious together.
Alongside him, musicians Matt Reid, Michael Napoli and Sam Evans create a musical soundscape that is fresh, exciting, and a true immersive delight.
The cast is stellar, perfectly capturing the beautifully diverse range of genres and characters.
Shipway’s vocals have such an incredible musical theatre tone. She effortlessly combines flawless technique, stunning power and emotive storytelling through her songs.
Tana Laga’aia is a powerhouse of a performer, conveying both beautiful softness and upbeat joy across the range of pieces he performs. It was also amazing to see his range of talents in his piano and guitar accompaniment.
Laura Murphy is so much fun to watch as she brings a quickness and lightness to the stage. She flits between great humour and beautifully intense emotional beats deftly throughout the show.
Stellar Perry rounds out the cast with a rockstar energy and vocal dynamics that bring the house down. She absolutely owns the stage, immediately capturing the audience’s attention from the opening notes.
The cast and creative team have crafted a stunning showcase of both Streisand’s repertoire and the extraordinary talent of Australian performers. Barbra: The Greatest Star is an incredible night out for both the die-hard Streisand fans and newcomers to her work.
Barbra: The Greatest Star runs to 14 February 2026 at Hayes Theatre Co. 19 Greenknowe Avenue Potts Point NSW 2011.
It then runs 26 – 28 February at Riverside Live at PHIVE. 5 Parramatta Square, Parramatta NSW 2140. Get tickets here.
Tickets: https://hayestheatre.com.au/event/barbra/
Website: https://hayestheatre.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/hayestheatreco_official/
Photo credits: John McRae
