The opening moments of My Brilliant Career immediately set the tone for the fabulous musical that is to follow. Kala Gare, playing Sybylla Melvyn, steps to the front of the stage and tells us that the story we are about to hear is all about her, has very little plot and almost no romance. Her exuberant delivery draws instant laughter from the audience. She then launches into her first song and rocks the place. It’s only been a few minutes, but already we’re hooked.

Kala Gare as Sybylla Melvyn in My Brilliant Career. Photo © Pia Johnson

Miles Franklin’s semi-autobiographical 1901 book was made into a famous 1979 film. This musical adaptation, featuring music by Mathew Frank, lyrics by Dean Bryant, and book by Bryant and Sheridan Harbridge, feels audaciously fresh, without losing the original essence of the feminist tale.

The miracle of the show itself, and Anne-Louise Sarks’ exuberant production, is the way it manages to feel contemporary in its storytelling, while still relating to the period in which it is set. It’s a clever balancing act. On top of that, it feels distinctly, loveably Australian.

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