My Brilliant Career, brought to you by Melbourne Theatre Company, is back for an encore season after a smash hit in 2024. Directed by Anne-Louise Sarks, this is a masterclass in Australian theatre. The award-winning musical brings bush ballads, pop, and pub-rock tunes all under the southern cross sky.
What a delight to hear the Australian accent on stage, delivering an Australian classic that celebrates the spirit of this country. It is an unfortunate rarity, despite being a nation that punches well above its weight in the arts. This is a show that needs to go international. What a fantastic display of Australian talent and stories.
While the play is based on Miles Franklin’s novel, published in 1901, its themes of feminism, breaking free of expectations, and the intensity of youth remain relevant. This stage adaptation features a book by Sheridan Harbridge and Dean Bryant, with lyrics by Bryant and music by Matthew Frank, made possible through Monash University and the NEXT STAGE Writers’ Program.
We follow Sybylla, crushed by societal norms and burning with a fever for a life bigger than others have imagined for her. She is feisty, punchy and loveable. Bringing modernity to this tale means that we get some anachronistic twists in the language and costumes used at times. This is endearing and puts us right into the story rather than distracts, which is no small feat!
Kala Gare as Sybylla Melvyn is a genius. What a powerhouse of talent that can act, sing, and play seemingly every instrument on stage. Her voice is among the most impressive I have ever heard live. Her ability to demonstrate not just technical range but also to deliver emotions makes for an outstanding performance.
Gare’s comedy delivery is exceptional, and it is hard to imagine anyone else in this role. She brings a lightness that invites each audience member to feel every part of Sybylla’s journey. I am a huge fan and can’t wait to see what is next for her.
My Brilliant Career is a show that fully integrates the whole cast into each scene. Even musical director Victoria Falconer is part of the ensemble! Each cast member is incredibly talented, playing an instrument AND many in multiple roles (with multiple costume changes too, of course!).
Raj Labade as the smarmy yet charming Harry and lady-killer Peter is magnetic and confident. Drew Livingston as Father, Jay-Jay and M’Swat is fantastic. His physical comedy is spot-on, and what a fantastic voice too, particularly in Prince of a Girl. Melanie Bird, playing Gertie and Blanche, brings so much range and voice to vastly different and demanding roles.
Cameron Bajraktarevic-Hayward as Frank is hilarious, bringing fun and heart to the ‘stuck-up’ Englishman. Lincoln Elliott, playing Jimmy and Horace, also brings comedic relief and a youthful energy to his boisterous characters.
Christina O’Neill as Mother, Helen, Mrs M’Swat is inspiring, playing the multifaceted strength of each character with immense grace. Ana Mitsikas, playing Grannie and Rose-Jane, brings elegance to the roles while also killing it on the keys.
The set and costumes by Marg Horwell bring harmony to the show. The staging echoes the barren, drought-ridden wheat-belt, with each transition effective and precise. Props are simple yet effective, using chairs for acting and for dance scenes.
The costumes use fabrics that sparkle and dull on the stage, reflecting the mood of our heroine. A special shout-out to the flamboyant pink feathery number for Blanche’s number – gorgeous!
The lighting by Matt Scott is also poignant and purposeful. From the disco lights to the subtle orange tones of an Aussie sunrise, Scott creates a beautiful atmosphere throughout the show.
As Sybylla shows us, to be understood is to be loved. Be sure to catch this very special limited season of My Brilliant Career from Melbourne Theatre Company to listen, to feel, and to recognise something of yourself reflected back.
My Brilliant Career is presented by Melbourne Theatre Company and runs to 28 February at Southbank Theatre, The Sumner. 140 Southbank Boulevard Southbank Vic 3006.
It then embarks on a national tour. See full dates below.
Tickets: https://tickets.mtc.com.au/production/19714
Website: https://www.mtc.com.au/plays-and-tickets/whats-on/season-2026/my-brilliant-career/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/mybrilliantcareer/
Photo credits: Pia Johnson
2026 Australian Tour Dates:
Canberra 7 – 15 March, Canberra Theatre Centre
Sydney 21 March – 3 May, Roslyn Packer Theatre
Wollongong 8 – 17 May, Illawarra Performing Arts Centre
