Hayes Theatre Co has locked in the world premiere of Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical, a new Australian production with book, music and lyrics by Steven Kramer and direction by Sheridan Harbridge. Citing strong demand, the season has been extended, with an extra final week added. Performances run at Hayes Theatre Co in Potts Point from 17 October until 22 November 2025.
Leading the company is New Zealand born and Australian claimed Joel Granger as Phar Lap, joined by Justin Smith as trainer Harry Telford and Manon Gunderson-Briggs as The Announcer. Shay Debney steps in as jockey Jim Pike, Nat Jobe portrays owner David Davis, and Wiradjuri performer Lincoln Elliott appears as Phar Lap’s brother Nightmarch. Rounding out the principal cast, Amy Hack features as Madame X, with newcomer Joey Phyland covering as Swing.
Composer Steven Kramer previewed the tone and energy audiences can expect from the premiere, sharing:
I’ve been chomping at the bit to announce this hilarious and talented cast. Bringing to life singing and tap-dancing horses, domineering jockeys and fanatical horse-girls, you can bet they’ll have you laughing all night and then falling in love with Australia’s big-hearted equine hero.
Positioned as a rags-to-riches crowd-pleaser with a knowingly absurd edge, Phar Lap reframes the legend without puppetry or elaborate effects. The creative team promises a brisk, brassy electro-swing score that nods to Duke Ellington as much as Daft Punk, with scenes moving from racecourse spectacle to rave hall pulse. The narrative traces the underdog arc from awkward Kiwi import to Melbourne Cup contender, skirting gambling scandals, double-crosses, an attempted shooting and even a sugar habit along the way.
Performances are scheduled Monday at 6.30pm, Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm, with additional matinees on Thursday at 1.00pm and Saturday at 2.00pm. Bookings can be made via the Hayes Theatre Co website, or by calling their box office team during business hours on (02) 8065 7337.
