There is something quietly thrilling about a show that knows exactly what it is and executes it with absolute confidence. Putting It Together, currently playing at the Foundry Theatre, is one of those rare gems: intimate, intelligent, and utterly intoxicating. It is a love letter to Stephen Sondheim’s music, yes, but more than that, it is a deeply human exploration of relationships, longing, compromise, and connection — all delivered with surgical precision and enormous heart.
Under Cameron Mitchell’s assured direction, with choreography kept deliberately minimal, Putting It Together becomes exactly what it promises: a masterful celebration of Sondheim’s music, threaded together by sharp observation and emotional insight. Rather than feeling like a revue, the show unfolds as a series of interconnected relationship arcs — romantic, aspirational, regretful, and reflective — allowing the audience to lean into the complexities Sondheim loved so dearly. Mitchell’s restraint is his triumph; nothing is overworked, nothing is extraneous, and every beat lands with intention.
The cast is nothing short of all-star, with each performer commanding the stage as if it were theirs alone yet generously sharing it as part of a finely tuned ensemble. Bert LaBonte is the ultimate MC and Observer, guiding us through the evening with humour, warmth, and impeccable timing. He moves the story along effortlessly, anchoring the show while inviting us into its world with a knowing wink.
Michael Cormick brings gravitas and richness as the Husband, his debonair presence matched by a sumptuous baritone that grounds the piece emotionally. There’s weight and lived-in experience in his performance — a reminder that Sondheim’s music often resonates most deeply when sung by those who have something to say. Nigel Huckle’s Young Man, by contrast, is all sweetness and optimism: earnest without being naïve, and deeply charming in his sincerity.
Then there’s Stefanie Caccamo — one of my favourite Australian performers — and she is, quite simply, a joy. Her comedic timing is razor-sharp, her instincts impeccable, and her vocals a thrilling blend of classic clarity and musical theatre belt. Watching her effortlessly flick between styles is a masterclass in control and character. Every moment she’s on stage feels alive, playful, and purposeful.
And finally, Caroline O’Connor. What can possibly be said that hasn’t already been earned over decades of extraordinary work? Her experience is on full display here, and she is undeniably the jewel in this show’s crown. I knew she would demolish The Ladies Who Lunch — and she does — but nothing prepared me for Getting Married Today. Reborn is the only word for it. Add to that her laugh-out-loud pairing with Caccamo on There’s Always a Woman, a moment that will echo in my mind for years, and you have theatre magic.
These small, expertly crafted shows are worth their weight in gold. Putting It Together is a gift — to Sondheim lovers, to theatre lovers, and to anyone who understands the power of artists at the very top of their game. This should be on everyone’s must-see list for 2026.
– 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 and try new gins. Follow him on all the socials @talldancraig
Putting It Together runs for 2 hours 10 minutes (with a 20-min interval) and plays at the Foundry Theatre, through 15 February 2026. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.
Disclosure: The Plus Ones were guests of IP Publicity.
Image credit: Daniel Boud
