World premiere musical to open at Sydney’s Hayes Theatre
It’s a brand new musical! Loosely based on Shakespeare’s Hamlet and E.M Foster’s novel Maurice, the world premiere of Beyond Desire will play at the Hayes Theatre in November.
With book and lyrics by British theatre-maker Neil Rutherford, and music by Kieran Drury, the show is described as a “modern Edwardian musical of murder and mystery.”
The year is 1910. Anthony, having recently graduated from university, is touring Italy when he discovers his father has been found dead in a hotel in London. Suspecting a deeper motive, Anthony and his friend James start to investigate, leading to a discovery which embroils the whole family and household in a riveting story of passion, jealousy, love and deception.
Directed by Rutherford, the show’s cast is comprised of some of Australia’s strongest musical theatre talent, starting at the top with Hayes Theatre Co’s namesake, Nancye Hayes. It will also star Blake Bowden (South Pacific), David Bulters (South Pacific), Chloe Dallimore (The Addams Family), Ross Hannaford (King Kong), and Christy Sullivan (The Mousetrap).
“I’m so thrilled to present the world premiere of Beyond Desire in Australia at Hayes Theatre Co,” Rutherford said.
“There is absolutely a place for every style of musical for today’s audiences, but Kieran and I have specifically written Beyond Desire, our third musical together, to be the antithesis of the high octane, large scale International musicals. We hope that the sensitive intimacy and ensemble nature of Beyond Desire will enthrall and excite audiences who value interesting new musical theatre and it’s ability to challenge and reward them with its material, gripping storyline and outstanding performances.”
The musical style has a contemporary musical theatre feel, but is inspired by the writings of composers of the period, including Elgar, Ravel, Debussy and Grainger.
Beyond Desire will play at Hayes Theatre Co from Friday 21 November – Saturday 13 December. For tickets and more information, visit www.hayestheatre.com.au.
