Cast Announced For Phar Lap Musical

Hayes Theatre Co has announced the casting for the upcoming World Premiere of Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical, with book, music and lyrics by Steven Kramer and directed by Sheridan Harbridge. This brand-new Australian musical comes to Hayes Theatre Co from 17 October, and due to huge demand an extra final week of performances has been added. Tickets are on sale now from www.hayestheatre.com.au.

The titular role of Phar Lap will be played by New Zealand born but Australian claimed triple threat, Joel Granger (Guys and Dolls, The Book of Mormon). His trainer, Harry Telford, will be played by Justin Smith (Into the Woods, Billy Elliot) with commentary by Manon Gunderson-Briggs (Come From Away) who plays The Announcer. Jim Pike, Phar Lap’s jockey will be played by Shay Debney (The Wizard of Oz). Phar Lap’s owner, David Davis, is played by Nat Jobe (Shrek) and the role of Phar Lap’s brother, Nightmarch, will be played by Wiradjuri performer Lincoln Elliott (Ride the Cyclone).  Amy Hack (Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown) is Madame X and Swing is Joey Phyland. 

Composer Steven Kramer said of this cast, “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.”

Not just another absurdist, electro-swing musical comedy about a thoroughbred racehorse, Phar Lap is a rags-to-riches story with a big heart. Forget puppets and dazzling effects and 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 racecourse to the rave hall.

Pop the champagne, harness up and get ready for a wild ride. Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical promises the show that will stop the nation!

Images: (top) Justin Smith, Joel Granger, Sheridan Harbridge and Steven Kramer & (lower) Joel Granger and Justin Smith. Photographer: John McCrae

PHAR LAP: THE ELECTRO-SWING MUSICAL

Writer: Steven Kramer

Director: Sheridan Harbridge

Musical Director: David Gardos

Choreographer: Ellen Simpson

Set Designer: Hailley Hunt

Costume Designer: Mason Brown

Lighting Designer: Trent Suidgeest

Sound Designer: Zac Saric

Production Manager: Damion Holling

Stage Manager: Daniel Cottier

SEASON DETAILS

Venue: Hayes Theatre Co, 19 Greenknowe Ave, Potts Point

Season: 17 October - 22 November

Times: Mon 6.30pm, Tue-Sat 7.30pm, Thurs 1pm, Sat 2pm

Price: From $69 Adult, $64 Concession/Group, $55 Under 35

Bookings: www.hayestheatre.com.au | (02) 8065 7337