As a child on the 90s, I can say that I am most excited for what Queensland Theatre has in store to conclude their 2024 season – a season which has featured an incredible range of works this year. The Queensland-based arts company together with co-producer the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, has confirmed the cast for the world premiere of Round the Twist The Musical, based on the 90s TV show which itself was an adaptation of the literary works of Paul Jennings. The season is set to commence at the QPAC Playhouse on 12 November 2024, and is a new Australian musical written by Paul Hodge and directed by Simon Phillips.
Set in a lighthouse, Round the Twist follows single dad Tony Twist and his children—Pete, Linda, and Bronson—as they embark on a magical quest to solve a century-old mystery.
Matt Hetherington will play the role of the eccentric artist Tony Twist. Eddison Ai and brothers Luka and Sebastian Sero will alternate as Bronson Twist, following auditions opening back in May. Hanlon Innocent takes on the role of Pete Twist, while Charly Oakley will portray Linda Twist.
In addition to the Twist’s, there is the Gribble family. The main antagonists will be played by David James as Harold Gribble and Tarita Bostman as Matron Gribble. Nick Van Lits will play Gribble Jnr, joined by Carla Beard as Tiger and Carlo Boumouglbay as Rabbit.
Also joining the cast are Liz Buchanan as Fay James, Christen O’Leary as neighbour Nell Rickards, Bryan Probets as principal Mr. Snapper, and Taylah Johns as Fiona Richmond. The cast will be rounded out by ensemble roles portrayed by Laura Raineri and Alex Tye.
The production will feature set design by Renée Mulder, lighting by Ben Hughes, audiovisual design by Craig Wilkinson, and sound by Brady Watkins. James Dobinson will serve as Music Supervisor, with Lucy O’Brien as Musical Director and Andrew Hallsworth as Choreographer. The musical will draw on episodes from the first two seasons of the TV series and has Paul Jennings’ endorsement for staying true to the spirit of the original stories.
Paul Hodge, who wrote the book, music, and lyrics, highlighted the musical’s broad appeal:
If you sing ‘Have you ever, ever felt like this?’ to Aussies of a certain age, they will immediately sing you the rest of the famous theme tune from Round The Twist. The theme song is critically important to the musical as a touchstone throughout, and I’ve listened to a lot of contemporary Australian music to help create the musical language of the show.
Paul Jennings really understands the emotional, awkward and embarrassing parts of growing up and the TV show has a lot of heart, so it’s been very important to me to maintain that as well as all the strange things happening.
It’s also a story about home, with the Twists living in a rather unusual home – a lighthouse – so I couldn’t be more thrilled for the show to premiere in my hometown, Brisbane.
Queensland’s Minister for the Arts, Leeanne Enoch, praised the collaboration between Queensland Theatre and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, sharing:
I’m delighted that Round The Twist The Musical will premiere in Queensland, connecting new audiences with the fantastical stories of Paul Jennings and continuing QPAC’s and Queensland Theatre’s commitment to delivering thrilling stage productions that celebrate creative talent and connect with diverse communities.
Queensland Government support for these arts companies, and their development and presentation of engaging arts experiences, delivers on the priorities of our Creative Together 2020-2030 roadmap including sharing our stories and celebrating our storytellers as we prepare for the global spotlight of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Information on a dedicated Night with the Artists event, accessible performances, the traditional play briefing and comprehensive pricing information can be found on the Queensland Theatre website. Tickets themselves are available exclusively via QPAC, either via their website or by calling their box office team on 136 246. I for one, cannot wait!
