Disney’s Tarzan: The Stage Musical has swung into the National Theatre St Kilda with an explosion of colour, soaring acrobatics, and heartfelt storytelling. Presented by James Terry Collective, this stage adaptation of the beloved 1999 film invites audiences deep into the jungle where soaring vocals, breath-catching aerial tricks, and family come together to create something unforgettable.
The production, directed by Alister Smith, builds on the original film, creating a new yet nostalgic, all ages show. The original score from Phil Collins has been expanded for the stage, with favourites like You’ll Be in My Heart and Two Worlds delivered with fresh punch under the music direction of Claire Healy.
In the title role, Joshua Russell shines as Tarzan. He delivers a commanding performance that balances physical feats with vulnerability. It is hard to believe this is Emily Robinson’s principal debut as Jane Porter. She gives a stellar performance, with fantastic comedic timing, dialogue delivery and charm.
Russell and Robinson’s chemistry is undeniable, creating sweet and tender moments that draw the audience into their unlikely love story.
Standout performances include Sarah Murr as the fiercely maternal Kala and Devon Braithwaite as the multi-faceted patriarch Kerchak. Braithwaite’s gravitas contrasts beautifully with Murr’s warmth, making their family dynamic believable and moving. Murr’s rendition of You’ll Be in My Heart is a gentle, heartfelt, and quietly powerful highlight.
The opening night audience’s clear favourite was Professor Porter, played by Drew Holmes. Each time he endearingly bumbled onto the stage, he was met with roaring laughter and cheers.
As Clayton, Nick Eynaud is deliciously despicable with his sharp timing and confident swagger, making him impossible to hate, even as the villain.
It is also a joy to watch the sweet duo of Trent Owers as Terk and Daniel Lim as Young Tarzan. I particularly enjoyed the hair and make-up choices for Terk (by Nick Eynaud on double duty) that nodded to the original film. Owers completely owns the fun and tongue-in-cheek nature of the role.
Despite his young age, Lim’s strong vocals carry throughout the theatre, reinforcing the naiveté of a young orphan trying to find his voice.
The ape ensemble is not only physically precise but deeply expressive, giving dimension and humanity to characters that could easily be played as caricatures. The aerialists (Simon Fairweather, Brittany Ford, and Josephine Lopes) in particular create beautiful panoramas on the stage as they swing in unison in the vines.
Technically, the production makes strong creative choices that coat the audience in the atmosphere. Lighting design by Declan O’Neil bathes the stage in earthy greens and golden tones, shifting seamlessly from loud jungle vibrancy to tense stand-offs.
Bianca Pardo’s costuming blends human with animal form in a way that avoids feeling gimmicky, allowing performers to move freely while maintaining a distinct visual style. Michael Ralph’s choreography marries modern dance with circus-inspired physicality to create a thrilling visual feast.
Tarzan: The Stage Musical is a delight for families and ‘90s babies alike. It balances adventure and high-energy stunts with the emotional depth of its themes: family, belonging, and the courage to embrace all parts of yourself. Be prepared to gasp, giggle, and beat your chest with the world of Tarzan. This hit show is exclusive to Melbourne, so be sure to swing by before the limited season ends!
Tarzan: The Stage Musical runs from 29 August – 14 September at The National Theatre, 20 Carlisle Street St Kilda Vic 3182.
Tickets are on sale now Ticketek.
Website: https://tarzanstagemusical.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/tarzanstagemusical/
Images supplied by James Terry Collective
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2 responses to “Review: Tarzan The Musical Brings Disney Magic And Jungle Energy”
My husband and I loved the production of TArzan . The crowd was enthusiastic .. a real feel good show
My son partner and myself loved the musical show Tarzan we recommend it highly..We had amazing seats and crowd were very enthusiastic like ourselves..