Direct from its record-breaking return season at London’s Old Vic, Groundhog Day The Musical took Melbourne’s Princess Theatre by storm, launching into an exclusive 13-week season. The show has captivated audiences with sold-out preview performances, and The Plus Ones were delighted to be invited along to the Australian premiere.
Photo credit: Jeff Busby
Crafted by the award-winning minds of Australia’s own Tim Minchin AM, writer of the iconic 1993 film Danny Rubin, and director Matthew Warchus, Groundhog Day emerged as a gut-achingly funny and heart-warming production with just the right amount of darkness. Melbourne proudly stands as only the third city worldwide to host this enchanting musical comedy, where weatherman Phil Connors finds himself trapped in one day on endless repeat.
Photo credit: Jeff Busby
Olivier Award-winning and Tony Award-nominated star Andy Karl led the cast, reprising his acclaimed role as Phil Connors after originating it at London’s Old Vic and bringing it to Broadway. Karl’s performance was a masterclass in comedic timing which had my plus one and I on the edge of our seats. The cast also featured Elise McCann as the quick-witted and kind-hearted television producer Rita Hanson, along with a talented ensemble including Afua Adjei, Grant Almirall, Kaya Byrne, and many more.
Photo credit: Jeff Busby
Behind the scenes, the production boasted an impressive creative team, including Set and Costume by Rob Howell (Matilda The Musical, A Christmas Carol), Choreography by Lizzi Gee (Little Shop of Horrors, A Christmas Carol), and Musical Supervision by Christopher Nightingale (A Christmas Carol, Matilda The Musical). With Lighting by Hugh Vanstone (A Christmas Carol, Back to the Future), Sound by Simon Baker (A Christmas Carol, Girl from the North Country), and Illusions by Paul Kieve (Matilda The Musical, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban).
Photo credit: Jeff Busby
The combination of stellar performances, stagecraft, and a storyline that seamlessly blends dark comedy and heart, makes Groundhog Day a must-see production. The Plus Ones recommend you snap up some tickets soon to avoid missing out.
– Brenton
Groundhog Day is now showing for a limited season until Sunday 7 April at the Princess Theatre, get your tickets here.
