There’s a reason they call her Miss Show Business. In JUDY, Little Triangle once again proves they are the darlings of Sydney’s indie theatre scene, wrapping their audience in a glittering, heartfelt, and hilariously clever tribute to the one and only Judy Garland. Conceived by Alexander Andrews and developed with Andy Freeborn, this lovingly crafted 60-minute one-act cabaret is more than just a tribute show — it’s a masterclass in storytelling, musical reinvention, and joyful queer celebration.
From the opening moments, it’s clear that JUDY isn’t interested in impersonation or imitation. Instead, it offers a kaleidoscopic portrait of Judy’s life, legacy, and enduring place in the hearts of generations. With six performers sharing the storytelling duties, we don’t just see one Judy — we see many. Each cast member embodies a different facet of her: the child star, the studio rebel, the icon, the mother, the friend of Dorothy, the survivor. It’s a smart and moving approach that honours both the myth and the woman.
What elevates JUDY beyond the usual cabaret fare is its seamless blend of music and narrative. Beloved numbers like “The Man That Got Away” and “Zing! Went the Strings of My Heart” are imaginatively reworked, showcasing Little Triangle’s signature playfulness while still honouring the material. The hidden gems — and there are plenty — are delivered with knowing winks and emotional punch. Music theatre fans will delight in deep cuts, but even casual Garland admirers will be swept away by the heart in every note.
The intimacy of Hayes Theatre is put to excellent use. Andrews’ direction makes the most of the space, creating the feeling that you’re not just watching a show — you’re at a party, a wake, a reunion. There’s laughter, a few well-earned tears, and a collective sense of love for a woman who burned so brightly and so beautifully.
The ensemble is a knockout. Jack Dawson and Sebastian Nelson bring swagger and heartbreak to the more troubled chapters of Judy’s journey, while Prudence Holloway and Kira Leiva deliver powerhouse vocals and charm in equal measure. Addy Robertson is magnetic, particularly in moments of quiet vulnerability, and Madeleine Wighton brings both comedic flair and tender pathos to the stage. As a collective, they’re thrilling — balancing tight harmonies, clever choreo, and genuine emotional resonance. There are also a couple of sneaky, surprise vocal appearances — Juliette Coleman’s soulful delivery hushes the room with quiet intensity, while Ryan Gonzalez brings charisma and vocal fire, adding extra star power and depth to this joyful celebration.
In a world that sometimes feels short on magic, JUDY reminds us of what it means to dazzle, to endure, and to be unapologetically yourself. It’s a tribute Judy herself would have adored: messy, honest, sparkly, and full of love. If you’ve ever felt like the rainbow was just out of reach, this show might just help you find it.
– The other Daniel Craig
Daniel Craig is an international performer and has established himself as a trusted theatre specialist on the Sydney Arts Scene. While he understands the technical side of theatre, Dan writes for the everyday theatregoer (unlike some of those more prominent publications). When not in the audience, he loves to travel the world trying new gin. Follow him on all the socials @talldancraig
JUDY runs for 1 hour (no interval) and plays at The Hayes Theatre, through 15 June 2025. Tickets are available through The Hayes Theatre Company.
Disclosure: The Plus Ones were guests of Little Triangle.
Image credit: Thomas Carr and Jessie Jay
