Based on the 1980s film, Matthew Management in association with Hayes Theatre Co have announced the musical comedy XANADU the Musical is headed to Sydney in May 2016. This will be performed at Hayes Theatre Co (19 Greenknowe Ave, Potts Point) for a strictly limited season starting 12 May, with no word on if it will travel to other locations in Australia.
Leading the cast as Kira, the role originated by Olivia Newton-John, will be Jaime Hadwen (Bring It On: The Musical). Ainsley Melham (Hi-5) will play her love interest Sonny. The supporting cast includes Dion Bilios (Wicked), Francine Cain (Grease), Catty Hamilton (Hair), Kat Hoyos (Here Come The Habibs), James Maxfield (Dirty Dancing) and Jayde Westaby (The Rocky Horror Show). Behind the scenes, this production is being directed and choreographed by Nathan M Wright, with musical direction by Andrew Bevis, scenic design by Nathan Weyers and costume designs by James Browne. The musical’s book is by Douglas Carter Beane, with music & lyrics by Jeff Lynne and John Farrar.
Kira, the magical and beautiful Greek muse, descends from the heavens of Mount Olympus for Venice Beach, California, on a quest to inspire a struggling artist, Sonny, to achieve the greatest artistic creation of all time – the first roller disco… Well, hey. It is 1980! But, when Kira falls into forbidden love with the mortal Sonny, her jealous sisters take advantage of the situation and chaos abounds. XANADU features the chart topping songs from the film including Magic, Suddenly, I’m Alive, Evil Woman, All Over the World and of course Xanadu!
Matthew Henderson | Producer
I’m thrilled to find my perfect cast for this wonderful iconic musical. Jaime will be a glorious Kira; in his first musical after leaving Hi 5, Ainsley will be an endearing and delightful Sonny; and the rest of the cast are all top class musical theatre triple threats. In this case though, they will all be quadruple threats as they’ll be roller skating around the tiny Hayes Theatre Co stage as well. XANADU is an exuberant party musical – audiences won’t be able to wipe the smiles off their faces for days after.
