Clinton: Fresh from NYC, new Australian musical to open in Perth, 2016

Western Australia’s flagship theatre company, Black Swan State Theatre Company, has teamed up with the Perth Theatre Trust to bring a new Aussie musical to the stage in 2016.

Clinton – The Musical, written by Brisbane brothers Paul and Michael Hodge, will play its Australian debut season at the State Theatre Centre of WA from 27 August to 11 September next year, programmed as part of Black Swan’s 25th anniversary season.

“We are excited to be partnering with Perth Theatre Trust, for the Australian premiere of Clinton – The Musical”, said Black Swan General Manager, Natalie Jenkins.

“Their involvement in this production and working with resident companies for mutually beneficial outcomes demonstrates the value placed on the arts for the West Australian community.”

The show will open in Perth after an Off-Broadway season in NYC at New World Stages which began previews on March 25, officially opened on April 9 and is set to close on June 21, 2015. Prior to that, Clinton – The Musical London enjoyed a London season in 2013 and an Edinburgh Fringe Festival season in 2012.

“It’s certainly a great coup for Black Swan to have the Australian premiere in Perth, and a wonderful opportunity to showcase the talents of Australian writers, actors and designers of international standing.” said Rudi Gracias, Acting General Manager, Perth Theatre Trust.

The show – a satirical look at the 42nd President of the United States who upholds the ideals of Lady Liberty while simultaneously charming the pantsuit off her – received a New York Times Critics’ Pick, a nomination for Best New Musical from the Off-Broadway Alliance, plus nominations for Best New Musical and Best Book of a Musical at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

It is understood that the show features 12 actors in the cast and that the Off-Broadway cast recorded a cast album, set to be released by Ghostlight Records this year.

Subscriptions to Black Swan’s 2016 Season are on sale now at bsstc.com.au