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Spring Awakening  – Gold Coast Little Theatre Warnings:  Mature themes, explicit sexual content, abuse, sexual assault, abortion, suicide, coarse language. “The lost still walk behind you.” Adapted from Frank Wedekind’s groundbreaking and controversial play, Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik’s Spring Awakening is a rock musical that remains hauntingly relevant. Set in conservative Germany in 1891, the narrative follows a group of young teens as they grapple with the mysteries of the birds and the bees (without Google to help back then!) Among them are Melchior, a headstrong young man with self-taught knowledge of all sexual matters; Wendla, an innocent and curious girl; and the deeply anxious Moritz, who is struggling with both academics and sexual fantasies. These poor kids attempt to navigate puberty while being crushed beneath religious morality, strict schooling, and inherited shame. This leads to a compelling exploration of sexual awakening, repression, and the tragic consequences of adult neglect and ignorance. Nathan French’ s direction makes excellent use of the space, with frequent split staging allowing multiple emotional realities to coexist onstage. The raised rear platform, ladders, rigid frames, and moving set pieces — designed by Andrew Kassab — are adorned with vines and autumnal leaves, creating a striking visual contrast between natural growth and imposed restraint. The set functions as playground, prison, and battleground all at once. Georgia Ogge’ s choreography prioritises emotional truth over spectacle. Movement is often restrained and deliberate, or suddenly explosive when repression finally cracks. Combat and intimacy are handled carefully, supported by Jocelyn Moore-Carter’ s intimacy coordination; an essential safety net in a production requiring this level of vulnerability. The production uses recorded tracks rather than a live band, which proves a practical choice, with vocal direction by Taylor Holmes . That flexibility became crucial on opening night, as Jack Flanagan (Melchior) was required to project heavily through microphone issues for much of Act One. Despite this, his performance never faltered. His opening solo, “All That’s Known,” immediately showcases a stunning, controlled voice and an effortless, natural acting presence. Flanagan possesses this rare combination of vocal beauty and emotional truth (particularly impressive for an 18-year-old performer) and he anchors the production with beautiful sincerity and depth. From the moment the boys appear in Latin class, rigid with fear before their professor, the male ensemble threatens to steal the show. There is an undeniable je ne sais quoi  to this ensemble that is magnetic to watch. “The Bitch of Living” explodes with raw teenage frustration, desire, and torment. Each boy brings a distinct vocal colour, united by the pressure to succeed in a system stacked cruelly against them. Jolan Walker is excellent as the harsh authority figure, belittling Moritz with chilling realism. Emerson Bell’s Wendla is heartbreakingly believable. “Mama Who Bore Me” (the one song I knew going in) is delivered with pure, childlike curiosity, perfectly capturing a girl in bloom with no understanding of what her body is becoming. Olivia French , as Wendla’s conservative mother, embodies the damage caused by adult discomfort. When Wendla asks how babies are made, all she can offer is, “A woman must love her husband a lot.” Moments of humour and levity arrive through “My Junk,” where the cast become giddy over what seem like absurdly small curiosities: a girl’s stockings, a boy who’s good at maths. The girls soar through tight five-part harmonies, sweet and girlish in their fascination, while the boys are far more physical. Andrew Kassab’ s Hanschen is particularly memorable, hiding in the bathroom reading what he uses as erotica (it absolutely is not). “Touch Me” shifts the tone into something slower and more sensual, with Alex Holmes leading powerfully as Georg. Flanagan and Bell share a beautifully staged “The Word of Your Body,” choreographed with slow, tender touch and bathed in soft lighting. Notably, the pair never make eye contact; reinforcing that this intimacy exists in fantasy rather than reality. Bell continues to impress later in “Whispering,” a stunning number that lands with particular clarity if seated stage right. Ziggy Dutfield’ s Moritz is utterly captivating: awkward, endearing, and quietly funny at first. “And Then There Were None” is delivered with extraordinary vocal power and emotional precision (a Broadway performer reincarnated?) Please know that I wanted to cheer, but the scene ends too abruptly to allow for it! Crushed by academic failure, parental brutality, and sexual shame, Moritz begs for escape. Jolan Walker’s portrayal of Moritz’s father is genuinely distressing, screaming him into a fetal position. Dutfield and Chloe Smith's pairing in “Don’t Do Sadness / Blue Wind” offers a fleeting sense of nostalgia — of childhood, spring, and summer — before anger and despair overwhelm Moritz once more. The poetic lyricism allows both performers to explore yearning and loss with heartbreaking honesty. Laila Chequer De Souza’ s Martha brings the show firmly to real-o’clock  with “The Dark I Know Well.” As she reveals ongoing abuse by her father, the lighting turns red, the men close in, and her voice shifts from pain to rage, with a flicker of strength breaking through. Chloe Smith as Ilse joins her, offering solidarity, shared resilience, and a stunning vocal tone. Andrew Kassab and Nate Purdy are wonderful as Hanschen and Ernst; delicate, tender, and sincere in their portrayal of young queer love. Their scenes feel softly revolutionary within this rigid world. Lighting Designer Ben Vlasich uses intense green lighting patterns to support Wendla and Melchior’s encounter (where she asks him to strike her so she can “feel something” WHAT), causing a sense of unease, power imbalance, and dangerous curiosity. “I Believe” requires enormous bravery from the leads in that spotlight, and both meet the moment with courage and trust. Later, “Mirror-Blue Night” transforms the stage into a swirling, mirror-ball wash of light. Despite the heaviness of Act Two, “Totally Fucked” offers a brief, riotous release. Flanagan climbs into the audience, the ensemble swing from ladders, throw leaves, and gleefully flip us off. This musical often feels like Sex Education ... if it were set in 1891 Germany and stripped of any adult guidance whatsoever.... Speaking of, the adult world, portrayed by just two actors (Olivia French and Jolan Walker) , fails these children at every turn. Religious rigidity, institutional cruelty, and forced silence culminate in devastating consequences. Wendla’s realisation (spoiler) — “ I’m going to bear a child?! But I’m not married? ” — lands with chilling innocence. Emerson Bell is strong throughout, but this moment (and the ones following) could be pushed even further into theatrical drama/horror. “Left Behind” rips the heart out of the room, with Walker’s anguished cries echoing with very real levels of grief. “Those You’ve Known” draws us fully into sorrow, with Flanagan delivering one of the most emotionally raw moments of the night. Spring Awakening  at Gold Coast Little Theatre is bold, emotionally devastating, and deeply human. It asks difficult questions and refuses easy answers. Sit in the front row if you dare — you may leave with fog, spit, sweat, tears, and leaves on you — but you will leave changed. Highly recommended for mature audiences who are ready to listen.

Title:  Three Little Words Presented By:  Ad Astra Theatre Company Genre:  Theatre / Drama   Synopsis:   Three Little Words follows two long-term couples whose carefully balanced friendships are thrown into chaos when one marriage suddenly ends. As loyalties shift and buried truths surface, the four friends are forced to confront what love, commitment, and happiness really mean. As hilarious as it is heartbreaking, Joanna Murray-Smith’s play skewers modern relationships with sharp wit and emotional honesty, revealing how three little words can upend lives.   Audition Date:   February 3rd and 5th, 2026 Callbacks - February 7th, 2026 Audition Times:   7:15 - 10PM Callbacks - 10 - 3PM Audition Location and Address:   Ad Astra - Pluto, 210 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane   Audition Requirements:  Please prepare 2 short monologues that display dramatic and comedic range. Applicants may be asked to perform a cold read during the audition. Audition Registration:   To apply, please email creatives@adastracreativity.com. Please include your current CV in Word or Google Doc only, as well as a RECENT headshot. Please make sure you specify the role/roles you will be auditioning for.   Performance Dates:  April 16th - May 9th, 2026 Performance Times:    Thursdays and Fridays - 8PM Saturdays - 2PM & 7:30PM Performance Location:   Ad Astra - Pluto, 210 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane   Rehearsal Dates:   Two week nights and a weekend day from February 10th, through to opening night.      Performer Age:  Playing ages 40s/50s  Creative Team:  Written by Joanna Murray-Smith Directed by Greg Scurr Production Website:   Ad Astra - Three Little Words   Available Roles/Character Breakdown: Tess (40’s) - A book editor, questioning what she wants from the rest of her life. Curtis (40s) - Tess’s husband of 20 years. A teacher, who thought he was living the perfect life. Bonnie (late 40s - early 50s) - A strong, sophisticated art gallery owner. Annie (40s) - Bonnie’s partner, a masseuse who begins to find her voice throughout the play.

Title:  The Madeleines – Brisbane Cast Auditions Presented By:  The Madeleines Genre:  Vocal Performance / Jazz & Swing Entertainment Synopsis: The Madeleines are a professional vocal trio performing jazz, swing, and timeless classics from the 1920s–1960s in polished three-part harmony with choreography, charm, and high-energy stagecraft. They are launching a new Brisbane cast to perform in a variety of settings including festivals, corporate events, cruise ships, theatres, and more. Audition Date: First Round - Self-tape submissions due February 15th, 2026  Audition Time: Self-Tape Deadline - 12PM Audition Location and Address: First Round - Self-tape (record at home/studio) Call Backs - Australian Performing Arts Conservatory (APAC) – Date TBA Audition Self-Tape Due: Yes - February 15th, 2026 at 12PM AEST Audition Requirements: Submit a self-tape with: A jazz vocal performance of your choice (landscape video) A brief on-camera introduction stating your name, location, instruments (if any), and why you want to join The Madeleines Include a headshot and CV with your submission Audition Registration: Email your self-tape, headshot, and CV to - themadeleinestrio@gmail.com Performance Dates: Shows and bookings will be scheduled throughout 2026 and beyond Production Website: The Madeleines Other information: Shows are paid performances; rehearsal periods are unpaid, with guide tracks, scripts and choreography provided. All performers should have strong close-harmony vocal skills, dance/movement ability, and excellent stage presence with comedic timing and audience engagement. The company welcomes performers regardless of age, ethnicity, disability, gender identity, or background

< Back MUSICAL SHOWCASE: An Evening in Concert - QAEMT, QPAC 4 Mar 2026 Season: March 4th - 7th, 2026 Title: An Evening in Concert – 3rd Year Musical Theatre Students Presented By: Queensland Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre, Griffith University, QPAC Genre: Musical Theatre Showcase Synopsis: Experience an unforgettable evening of music with the talented third year students from the Queensland Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre as they embark on their professional year. This dynamic concert of personal storytelling offers a rare opportunity to witness the next generation of musical theatre performers at the brink of their careers. Performance Dates: March 4th - 7th, 2026 Performance Times: Wednesday, Thursday & Friday - 7PM Saturday - 2PM & 7PM Performance Location and Address: Tony Gould Gallery, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), Corner of Melbourne Street & Grey Street, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia Ticket Costs: $55 (plus transaction fee); concessions, student, group and school discounts available Ticket Link: Buy Tickets - An Evening in Concert Duration: 1 hour (no interval) Cast: Performers are the third year students of the Queensland Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre Production Website: QPAC - An Evening in Concert Other Information: QPAC provides accessibility support including dedicated seating options for wheelchair users and Companion Card holders; bookings for accessibility seating can be made by calling QPAC’s ticketing centre. Discounts are available for concession card holders, students, groups and schools. Previous Next

Discover the latest in Brisbane theatre auditions and reviews on Stage Buzz Brisbane. Your go-to source for all things theatre in the Queensland capital. WELCOME TO STAGE BUZZ BRISBANE This dynamic hub for South-East Queensland thespians is your go-to source for audition updates, performance reviews, and engaging content that celebrates the vibrant local theatre scene. From spotlighting talented actors to providing valuable tips, it's a community-driven platform that brings the magic of the stage to the forefront, fostering connection and celebration among theatre enthusiasts in the region. NICE TO MEET YOU Embrace the enchanting world of South-East Queensland's theatre scene right here on Stage Buzz Brisbane! We're your go-to hub for all things theatrical, from audition alerts and performance reviews to exclusive spotlights on local talents and invaluable theatre tips. Whether you're a seasoned thespian or a passionate supporter of the arts, join us on this exciting journey as we celebrate the magic that unfolds on our local stages. At Stage Buzz Brisbane, we believe every production deserves its moment in the spotlight. If you know of any upcoming productions or hidden gems that have slipped under the radar, don't hesitate to reach out and share your insights or let us know about the productions that deserve extra applause. Together, let's shine a light on the vibrant and thriving community theatre culture in South-East Queensland. Let the curtains rise, and let the show begin! Contact

Upcoming Performances 19 Mar 2026 THEATRE: Brisbane - Ad Astra Theatre Season: March 19th - April 11th, 2026 Read More 12 Mar 2026 MUSICAL REVUE: Side by Side with Sondheim - A Night at the Musicals, Brisbane Powerhouse Season: March 12th - 14th, 2026 Read More 4 Mar 2026 MUSICAL SHOWCASE: An Evening in Concert - QAEMT, QPAC Season: March 4th - 7th, 2026 Read More 4 Mar 2026 THEATRE: Steve the Queen - PIP Theatre, Cosmo Creative Season: March 4th - 14th, 2026 Read More 28 Feb 2026 THEATRE: Nell Gwynn - QLD Conservatorium, Metro Arts Season: February 28th - March 7th, 2026 Read More 27 Feb 2026 THEATRE: The Shawshank Redemption - Ipswich Little Theatre Season: February 27th - March 14th, 2026 Read More 27 Feb 2026 CHILDREN'S THEATRE: Bleep Quest - Play on Stage Season: February 27th - March 1st, 2026 Read More 27 Feb 2026 THEATRE: Savannah Sipping Society - Sunnybank Theatre Group Season: February 27th - March 13th, 2026 Read More 27 Feb 2026 DANCE: The Other Side of Me - Gary Lang NT Dance Company, QPAC Season: February 27th - 28th, 2026 Read More 26 Feb 2026 YOUTH MUSICAL: Mamma Mia! - Flinders Dramatic Arts Season: February 26th - 28th, 2026 Read More 25 Feb 2026 BALLET: Shen Yun - HOTA Season: February 25th, 2026 Read More 25 Feb 2026 CHILDREN'S THEATRE: The Party - Catbird Theatre, The Events Centre Season: February 25th, 2026 Read More 24 Feb 2026 THEATRE: The Game's Afoot - Toowoomba Repertory Theatre Society Season: February 24th - March 7th, 2026 Read More 21 Feb 2026 THEATRE: Couples Therapy - Footlights Theatrical Season: February 21st, 2026 Read More 21 Feb 2026 MUSICAL REVUE: Believe - Shine Performing Arts Academy Season: February 21st, 2026 Read More 21 Feb 2026 BALLET: Sleeping Beauty - Fever, QUT Gardens Theatre Season: February 21st - August 1st, 2026 Read More 21 Feb 2026 MUSICAL REVUE: Believe in Youth - Shine Performing Arts Academy Season: February 21st, 2026 Read More 20 Feb 2026 RADIO PLAY: A Night of Sherlock Homes - Nash Theatre Season: February 20th - March 14th, 2026 Read More 20 Feb 2026 MUSICAL: Bonne & Clyde - Phoenix Ensemble Season: February 20th, 2026 Read More 20 Feb 2026 OPERA: Shakespeare - Red Chair, Voxalis Season: February 20th - March 1st, 2026 Read More 19 Feb 2026 THEATRE: Hotel Sorrento - Ad Astra Theatre Season: February 19th - March 14th, 2026 Read More 19 Feb 2026 THEATRE: It's Time - HOTA Season: February 19th, 2026 Read More 19 Feb 2026 OPERA: A Winter's Journey - Opera Queensland, Musica Viva Season: February 19th, 2026 Read More 18 Feb 2026 THEATRE: Sidekicks - PIP Theatre Season: February 18th - 28th, 2026 Read More 14 Feb 2026 IMPROV THEATRE: Night at the Improv - PIP Theatre Season: February 14th, 2026 Read More 14 Feb 2026 THEATRE: The Mirror Crack'd - Centenary Theatre Group Season: February 14th - March 8th, 2026 Read More 14 Feb 2026 MUSICAL REVUE: Marry Me A Little - PIP Theatre Season: February 14th, 2026 Read More 14 Feb 2026 CABARET: Another Naughty Little Cabaret - Toowoomba Choral Society and Multicolour Musicals Season: February 14th, 2026 Read More 14 Feb 2026 LIVE MUSIC: Penelope's Web - PIP Theatre Season: February 14th, 2026 Read More 14 Feb 2026 BURLESQUE: Valentine's Follies - Bombshell Burlesque Season: February 14th, 2026 Read More 14 Feb 2026 MAGIC: Theatre of Magic - Empire Theatre Season: February 14th - December 5th, 2026 Read More 14 Feb 2026 DANCE: KPOP Showcase - Thomas Dixon Centre Season: February 14th, 2026 Read More 13 Feb 2026 IMPROV THEATRE: Sexfessional - PIP Theatre Season: February 13th, 2026 Read More 13 Feb 2026 INTERACTIVE THEATRE: Solve-Along-A-Murder-She-Wrote - Brisbane Powerhouse Season: February 13th, 2026 Read More 13 Feb 2026 THEATRE: The Woman in Black - Lind Theatre Season: February 13th - 21st, 2026 Read More 13 Feb 2026 THEATRE: Rice - Black Box Theatre Season: February 13th - 22nd, 2026 Read More 13 Feb 2026 THEATRE: For the Sake of Love - Sun and Wine Arts Company Season: February 13th - 15th, 2026 Read More 13 Feb 2026 THEATRE: Inspector Drake and the Perfekt Crime - Mousetrap Theatre Season: February 13th - March 1st, 2026 Read More 13 Feb 2026 CABARET: EPIC: Love Stories - VOX Theatre Arts Season: February 13th - 14th, 2026 Read More 13 Feb 2026 CABARET: Daggy Duets - PIP Theatre Season: February 13th - 14th, 2026 Read More 13 Feb 2026 IMPROV THEATRE: Culprits - Big Fork Theatre Season: February 13th, 2026 Read More 13 Feb 2026 CABARET: Balikbayan Blues Love Stories - PIP Theatre Season: February 13th, 2026 Read More 12 Feb 2026 MUSICAL REVUE: Love Songs Through the Ages - PIP Theatre Season: February 12th, 2026 Read More 12 Feb 2026 THEATRE: The Great Gatsby - QLD Theatre, Shake & Stir, QPAC Season: February 12th - March 8th, 2026 Read More 12 Feb 2026 CABARET: Music & Me - PIP Theatre Season: February 12th, 2026 Read More 11 Feb 2026 CABARET: The Two Sides of Love - PIP Theatre Season: February 11th, 2026 Read More 9 Feb 2026 PLAY READING: Playground - 7th Floor Theatre, PIP Theatre Season: Monthly from February 9th, 2026 Read More 7 Feb 2026 IMPROV THEATRE: An Improvised Musical from the Tuning Forks - Big Fork Theatre Season: February 7th, 2026 Read More 7 Feb 2026 YOUTH MUSICAL: The Sound of Music - Roar Academy Season: February 7th - 8th, 2026 Read More 7 Feb 2026 CHILDREN'S THEATRE: Metamorphoses - Catbird Theatre Season: February 7th - 8th, 2026 Read More 6 Feb 2026 MUSICAL: 17 Again - Beenleigh Theatre Group Season: February 6th - 21st, 2026 Read More 6 Feb 2026 THEATRE: Golf, Marriage and Other Murderous Matters - Growl Theatre Season: February 6th - 15th, 2026 Read More 6 Feb 2026 MUSICAL: Cats - QPAC Season: February 6th - 22nd, 2026 Read More 6 Feb 2026 MUSICAL: Tarzan the Musical - Spotlight Theatrical Company Season: February 6th - 28th, 2026 Read More 6 Feb 2026 THEATRE: The Vicar of Dibley - Villanova Theatre Players Season: February 6th - 15th, 2026 Read More 6 Feb 2026 THEATRE: Bell, Book and Candle - Tugun Theatre Company Season: February 6th - 28th, 2026 Read More 6 Feb 2026 THEATRE: Dirty Flame Flash Candles Club - Western Standard Productions, Brisbane Powerhouse Season: February 6th - 7th, 2026 Read More 6 Feb 2026 OPERA: The Boor - Springboard Opera Season: February 6th - 10th, 2026 Read More 6 Feb 2026 THEATRE: Death's Desire - Act1 Theatre Season: February 6th - 21st, 2026 Read More 5 Feb 2026 THEATRE: The Great Gatsby - QLD Theatre, Shake & Stir, Empire Theatre Season: February 5th - 6th, 2026 Read More 31 Jan 2026 BALLET: Ballet of Lights: Cinderella - Fever Season: January 31st - July 18th, 2026 Read More 30 Jan 2026 MUSICAL: Spring Awakening - Gold Coast Little Theatre Season: January 30th - February 21st, 2026 Read More 28 Jan 2026 THEATRE: Murder Incorporated - Mayhem Theatre and PIP Theatre Season: January 28th - February 8th, 2026 Read More 28 Jan 2026 THEATRE: Deal With It! - Hanson Creative, Pip Theatre Season: January 28th - February 7th, 2026 Read More 22 Jan 2026 CHILDREN'S THEATRE: What's In The Woods - Brymore Productions, Backbone Youth Arts Season: January 23rd - February 14th, 2026 Read More 10 Jan 2026 THEATRE: The Jury Experience - Fever Season: January 10th - June 25th, 2026 Read More 3 Jan 2026 MUSICAL: Little Shop of Horrors - Woodward Productions, QPAC Season: January 3rd - February 15th, 2026 Read More 18 Sept 2025 BALLET: Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, Nutcracker & More - Fever Candlelight Concerts Season: September 18th, 2025 - January 17th, 2026 Read More 14 Nov 2024 CABARET: Blanc de Blanc Encore - Strut and Fret, West End Electric Season: November 14th, 2024 - March 15th, 2026 Read More