A trio stringed instrument playing pop anthems greeted me in the Southbank Theatre lobby. It was a sweltering 45 degree day, and I had bravely trekked across town for the opening night of My Brilliant Career. Debuting in 2024, this new Australian musical was a smash hit with audiences and critics alike. So, there was no way I was going to let the heat dissuade me from seeing the encore season of Melbourne Theatre Company’s feel-good show. 
Despite the extreme temperatures outside, a joyful crowd filled the theatre. The production opened with the ten-member cast forming a band on stage. (The instruments included everything from an upright piano to a tambourine). Inspired by the Miles Franklin novel first published in 1901, the show is a genre mash-up melding 1890’s manners with modern aesthetics.
The ensuing 2.5 hours flew by with the energetic cast belting catchy songs and turning cartwheels. At the heart of the story is Sybylla, a young woman full of fire and talent. Played by the indomitable Kala Gare, she gleefully breaks the fourth wall as the show’s lead character and narrator, addressing the audience as her ‘fellow Australians’.
My Brilliant Career is a feminist tale of a young woman constrained by society finding her own voice. Sybylla ruefully acknowledges as a woman in 1890s rural Australia, she could be dead at any moment. But the show is anything but a downer, and our heroine strictly forbids sentimental schmaltz.
Although Sybylla eschews sappy emotions, the show is full of heart. The characters bring a warmth to the stage, even if their desire for Sybylla to conform is misplaced. The cohesive cast appeared to delight in their time on stage together and their enthusiasm was infectious.
Another fabulous MTC set supported the talented actors. Designed by Tony Award winner Marg Horwell, the set effortlessly morphs from a dairy paddock to a manor house to an afternoon at the beach. The costume design mixed modern materials with classic lines. Clad in waistcoats and sequins, the actors transitioned from playing Sybylla’s relatives and love interests to playing keyboard and electric guitar.
The mash-up works and breathes a joyful new life into Franklin’s novel. 125 years on from the original publication date and the story of a young poor woman in Australia continues to speak to us. Don’t miss the well-deserved encore season of My Brilliant Career at Melbourne Theatre Company. It’s a stunner.
Jenny
Jenny Schmidt is an event aficionado. When she’s not attending live shows, you can find her sampling the latest craft beer or sipping a creative cocktail.
My Brilliant Career runs to 28 February at Southbank Theatre, The Sumner. 140 Southbank Blvd Southbank 3006. The national tour includes Sydney, Canberra, and Wollongong. Run time approx. 2 hour and 30 minutes, including interval. Book tickets now.
