Netball. Lesbians. Musical theatre.
Three things I never expected to see together, yet here we are. Presented by Little Triangle at the Eternity Playhouse, Nails the Musical proves they are a winning combination. This world premiere concert presentation is a joyous celebration of queer identity, wrapped in catchy songs, plenty of laughs, and enough sporting drama to keep everything moving. If there was ever a musical made for Pride Month, this is it. Unfortunately for you, dear reader, it’s also completely sold out. Your only hope now is to keep an eye on Little Triangle’s Facebook page and hope a returned ticket appears.
Set inside the elite North’s Netball Institute, Nails follows rising star Bec, whose carefully curated world is thrown into chaos when a group of unapologetically queer recruits arrive at the academy. Friendships are tested, romance blossoms and Bec is forced to confront who she really is. It’s a simple premise, but that’s exactly why it works. Rather than overcomplicating the story, the writers have created authentic characters and relationships that audiences genuinely invest in. While everyone is welcome courtside, this is unapologetically a queer show, by queer people, for queer people, and that authenticity shines through every scene. The result is a musical that is funny, heartfelt and refreshingly honest.
Although advertised as a concert presentation, this was far more than actors standing behind music stands. Costumes, props, scenic elements and full choreography transformed it into something much closer to a fully staged production. Director Manali Datar wisely keeps the storytelling clean and uncomplicated, trusting the material to do the heavy lifting rather than over-directing it. Ryan González’s choreography injects constant energy into the production, cleverly incorporating the athleticism of netball into movement that feels both playful and purposeful. Every musical number has momentum and helps drive the story forward rather than simply existing to fill time. Harry Collins’ contemporary pop-rock score is brought to life by Steven Kramer and the outstanding on-stage band, who deliver plenty of punch. However, in true current Sydney Theatre style, the music is allowed to overpower the vocals and the audience loses lots of the lyrics.
The cast are exceptional across the board. Natalie Abbott anchors the production as Bec, expertly balancing the character’s outward confidence with the vulnerability beneath the surface. Chelsea Dawson is the ultimate Heather as Maddison, determined to rule the world while blissfully unaware of her own shortcomings. Néad Cristaudo brings warmth and authenticity to Delilah, exploring what they thought they knew about their own identity with sincerity and heart. Kala Gare is an absolute delight as Crofty, bringing a genuine larrikinism that makes the character endlessly likeable. Madeleine Wighton steals plenty of laughs as Allegra, the wonderfully deadpan sidekick who always seems to be three steps behind everyone else. Lincoln Elliott provides the show’s balance as physiotherapist Casey, navigating the action with genuine heart and giving the audience someone to quietly root for. Laura Murphy is wonderfully ruthless as Judith, a coach whose moral compass points firmly towards winning at any cost. She is the show’s ultimate villain, and Murphy relishes every gloriously mean-spirited moment. Gracie Rowland immediately establishes the production’s tension as Miss Centre before seamlessly moving into the ensemble, while Vidya Makan confidently guides the audience through the story as Narrator with warmth and wit. Collectively, the chemistry across the company is undeniable, making every friendship, rivalry and romance feel completely believable.
Little Triangle has built a reputation for championing bold queer musicals, and Nails is another reminder of why they continue to be one of Sydney’s most exciting independent music theatre companies. This is a production bursting with pride, humour and heart, and judging by the audience response, it won’t be the last time this musical takes to the court. Here’s hoping Nails has a long future ahead of it, because it deserves to be seen by audiences well beyond these four sold-out performances.
– 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.
Nails the Musical in Concert runs for 2 hours 10 minutes (with a 20-minute interval) and plays at the Eternity Playhouse through 27 June 2026. Tickets, if you can get them, are available through the Qtopia Box Office.
Disclosure: The Plus Ones were guests of Little Triangle
Image credit: David Hooley
