The musical that stops the nation

WORLD PREMIERE

Directed by Sheridan Harbridge

Not just another absurdist, electro-swing musical comedy about a thoroughbred racehorse, Phar Lap is a rags-to-riches story with a big heart. If you’re thinking elaborate life-size puppetry and dazzling special effects, you couldn’t be more wrong (we don’t have the budget). Suspend your disbelief as an actor swaps his horseshoes for tap shoes to play one of Australia’s most beloved icons.

When an awkward, gangly horse from New Zealand meets a hapless, down-on-his-luck, trainer, they embark on a classic underdog story to win the Melbourne Cup, and Australians’ hearts and minds. The road isn’t easy – there are gambling scandals, double-crosses, an attempted shooting, and a career-threatening addiction to sugar. It’s high stakes, high drama, and highly historically accurate.

Phar Lap boasts an irresistible electro-swing score, with inspirations from Duke Ellington to Daft Punk. Brassy, lively and retro – these songs will take you from the race course to the rave hall.

Pop the champagne, harness up, and get ready for a wild ride.

Event Details:

• Dates: 17 October - 15 Nov 2025

• Times:
  Monday 6:30pm
  Tuesday – Saturday 7:30pm
  Thursday 1:00pm
  Saturday 2:00pm

  *No matinee performance on Sat 18 Oct
  *No matinee performance on Thu 23 Oct
  *Post show Q&A on Mon 27 Oct
  *Captioned performance on Wed 5 Nov

• Duration: Approx. 90 minutes – no interval

• Ages: To be advised.

• Location: Hayes Theatre

• Warnings: To be advised.

• Notes:
  Wheelchair Accessible

  Captioned Performance - WED 5 NOV

More info & tickets here.