Many of us have read Miles Franklin’s 1901 novel My Brilliant Career, or seen Gillian Armstrong’s 1979 film, so expectations are high for this musical adaptation that wraps up MTC’s 2024 season.

Its creators challenge our expectations, and set a significant challenge for themselves, by bringing together old and new sensibilities and styles. The balance feels remarkably right, in no small part thanks to the talented ensemble of actor-musicians gathered for this premiere production.

Melbourne Theatre Company’s My Brilliant Career. Photo © Pia Johnson

Franklin’s semi-autobiographical tale sees rebellious, intelligent teenager Sybylla Melvyn drowning in the drudgery of her impoverished family’s drought-stricken farm. The aspiring musician and writer is sent to her prosperous grandmother’s property, where creativity and romance bloom.

They are mutually exclusive for a young woman in 1899, however, so Sybylla is torn when wealthy landowner Harry Beecham proposes. Her future is further complicated when circumstances force her to become a governess.

This My Brilliant Career for the 21st century is created by Mathew Frank (music), Dean Bryant (book and lyrics) and Sheridan Harbridge (book), who is best known as an actor – including in electric one-hander Prima Facie.

It quickly...