MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL: Back in Sydney with Star-Studded Cast

After conquering stages worldwide for over two decades, Menopause The Musical is set to return to Sydney's State Theatre this September with an all-new production featuring four powerhouse performers of Australian musical theatre. The global phenomenon that has entertained over 17 million audiences across 500 cities promises to deliver its signature blend of hormonal humour and heart to a new generation of theatre-goers.

The production's remarkable track record speaks for itself. Since its 2001 premiere, the show has become the longest-running musical in Las Vegas history with a 17-year run that continues today. In Australia, what began as a modest two-month Melbourne season in 2005 extended to seven months, launching a nationwide love affair that has seen over 1.5 million Australians embrace "The Change" with laughter and solidarity.

This September's Sydney season brings together an exceptional cast that reads like a who's who of Australian entertainment. Tara Morice, forever beloved as Fran from Strictly Ballroom, takes on the Professional Woman role, bringing three decades of screen and stage experience that includes Moulin Rouge, McLeod's Daughters, and Dance Academy.

Joining her is Erika Heynatz as the Soap Star, a performer whose musical theatre credentials span from Legally Blonde to The Rocky Horror Show. Beyond her stage work, Heynatz brings recognisable screen presence from Mad Max: Fury Road and her original tenure hosting Australia's Next Top Model, adding star power to an already impressive ensemble.

Emma Powell stars as the Housewife, bringing her musical comedy expertise from recent hits including Sister Act, Come From Away, and Mamma Mia! As creator of international success Busting Out! and the original Australian musical Dumped! The Musical, Powell understands both the craft and business of making audiences laugh.

Cherine Peck completes the cast as Earth Mother, contributing more than three decades of musical theatre excellence. Her resume includes iconic productions like The Lion King, Miss Saigon, and Mary Poppins, with multiple Green Room Awards and a Helpmann nomination reflecting her industry standing.

The creative team behind this new production brings impressive credentials to the material. Director and choreographer Cameron Mitchell, whose recent work includes Singin' In The Rain and Nice Work If You Can Get It, understands how to balance broad comedy with genuine emotion. The design team, featuring talents behind recent hits like Titanique and Jekyll & Hyde, promises production values that enhance rather than overshadow the intimate storytelling.

At its heart, Menopause The Musical remains refreshingly simple: four women meet while shopping and discover shared experiences that transcend their different backgrounds. Through parodies of beloved hits from the '60s, '70s, and '80s – including "I Will Survive," "Hot Stuff," and "We Are Family" – they navigate the universal experience of middle-aged womanhood with humour and honesty.

The show's enduring appeal lies in its willingness to tackle subjects that mainstream entertainment often avoids. Hot flashes, memory lapses, and midnight sweats become sources of comedy rather than shame, creating a theatrical safe space where women can laugh at experiences they're often expected to endure silently.

For Sydney theatre-goers, this return engagement offers both nostalgia and discovery. Long-time fans can revisit beloved material with fresh eyes, while newcomers can experience a theatrical phenomenon that has quietly become one of the most successful musicals of the modern era.

The production's September season represents more than entertainment – it's an invitation to join a global sisterhood of women who refuse to let life's inevitable changes diminish their joy. In an era where frank discussions about women's health and aging are gaining mainstream acceptance, Menopause The Musical feels both timely and timeless.

Menopause The Musical runs this September at the State Theatre. With tickets going on sale 30 June and a waitlist pre-sale starting 25 June.

Tickets and more info: http://www.ticketmaster.com.au/