Hayes Theatre Co is proud to unveil the cast for the upcoming World Premiere of Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical. Featuring an outstanding lineup of Australian talent, this new musical with book, music, and lyrics by Steven Kramer and directed by Sheridan Harbridge begins its season on October 17. Due to popular demand, an extra final week of performances has been added.
The titular role of Phar Lap will be played by New Zealand born but Australian claimed triple threat, Joel Granger (Guys and Dolls, The Book of Mormon). His trainer, Harry Telford, will be played by Justin Smith (Into the Woods, Billy Elliot) with commentary by Manon Gunderson-Briggs (Come From Away) who plays The Announcer. Galloping into the spotlight as Jim Pike, Phar Lap’s leather-cladded jockey, is Shay Debney (The Wizard of Oz). Phar Lap’s owner, David Davis, is played by Nat Jobe (Shrek) and the role of Phar Lap’s brother, Nightmarch, will be played by Wiradjuri performer Lincoln Elliott (Ride the Cyclone). Hayes favourite Amy Hack (Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown) is Madame X and bringing up the rear as Swing is newcomer Joey Phyland.
Composer Steven Kramer said of this cast, “I’ve been chomping at the bit to announce this hilarious and talented cast. Bringing to life singing and tap-dancing horses, domineering jockeys and fanatical horse-girls, you can bet they’ll have you laughing all night and then falling in love with Australia’s big-hearted equine hero.”
Not just another absurdist, electro-swing musical comedy about a thoroughbred racehorse, Phar Lap is a rags-to-riches story with a big heart. Forget puppets and dazzling effects and suspend your disbelief as an actor swaps his horseshoes for tap shoes to play one of Australia’s most beloved icons.
When an awkward, gangly horse from New Zealand meets a hapless, down-on-his-luck trainer, they embark on a classic underdog story to win the Melbourne Cup, and Australians’ hearts and minds. The road isn’t easy – there are gambling scandals, double-crosses, an attempted shooting and a career-threatening addiction to sugar. It’s high stakes, high drama and highly historically accurate.
Phar Lap boasts an irresistible electro-swing score, with inspirations from Duke Ellington to Daft Punk. Brassy, lively and retro, these songs will take you from the racecourse to the rave hall.
Pop the champagne, harness up and get ready for a wild ride. Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical is the show that will stop the nation!
Phar Lap will be at Hayes Theatre co 17 October – 22 November. Tickets are on sale now at www.hayestheatre.com.au
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