Sydney’s theatre scene is buzzing with some exciting shows lined up in the coming weeks. In April, eager theatregoers can expect everything from giant Broadway musicals to niche, independent productions. Highlights include Madama Butterfly on Sydney Harbour, Into the Woods at Belvoir St Theatre and Sydney Theatre Company’s Julia. These are our picks for the best shows in Sydney this April that are worth booking tickets for asap.
1. Madama Butterfly
Handa Opera is back with yet another stunning production. Madama Butterfly has returned to Mrs Macquaries Point for an encore season after a critically acclaimed run in 2014. In case you haven’t experienced a waterfront production by Handa Opera, you’re in for a treat. Expect skyline views, world-class opera performances and nightly fireworks along with excellent food and drink options on-site. Tickets tend to sell out fast, grab yours here.
đź“ŤFleet Steps, Mrs Macquaries Point
24 March–23 April 2023
2. Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is currently playing at the Capitol Theatre and you can still grab tickets. The musical follows the Biblical story of Jacob, his favourite son Joseph and his eleven brothers. The feel-good musical is guaranteed to put you in a good mood with a medley of fun songs including Any Dream Will Do, Close Every Door to Me, and Go Go Go Joseph, vibrant costumes and excellent performances. Get more information here.
đź“ŤCapitol Theatre Sydney
Closing on April 16
3. Fantastic Mr. Fox
Roald Dahl’s Fantastic Mr. Fox is coming to the Roslyn Packer Theatre this April. The beloved children’s tale follows the story of Mr. Fox who lives underground beside a tree with his wife and four children who outsmart three dim-witted farmers named Boggis, Bunce and Bean. It’s only playing for a limited run, so don’t miss out. Tickets are available here.
đź“ŤRoslyn Packer Theatre
April 19-30
4. The Rocky Horror Show
The fun, boisterous and campy rock and roll classic The Rocky Horror Show is wrapping up its Sydney season this April. But there’s still time to enjoy a few final shows. Follow the adventures of an extra-terrestrial mad scientist from the galaxy of Transylvania and do the time warp one last time at this electric production. Final tickets are available here.
đź“ŤTheatre Royal Sydney
Closes April 2
5. Julia
Australia’s first female prime minister, Julia Gillard gave a bold parliamentary speech in 2012. The famous misogyny speech has since received widespread interest and attention around the world. This play is a fictional imagining of true events in the life of Julia Gillard and the story behind the speech. Grab your tickets here.
đź“ŤDrama Theatre, Sydney Opera House
March 31-May 13
6. Blanc de Blanc Encore
Expect a boozy evening filled with dance numbers, risqué acrobatics and sultry cabaret performances with Blanc de Blanc in its encore season. The adults-only experience is playing at a sparkling new circus and cabaret venue in Sydney. Get transported to 1920s Paris with acrobats, dancing and more.
đź“ŤThe Grand Electric
January 7 – April 23
7. 360 Allstars
Expect BMX, basketball, breakdancing, acrobatics, drumming and more in the super exciting 360 Allstars. Boasting an excellent cast of world champion and world record-holding artists and athletes, this production is a thrilling blend of art and dance inspired by street culture. Grab your tickets here.
đź“ŤRiverside Theatres, Parramatta
April 11-14
8. Don Quixote
The Australian Ballet’s Don Quixote recreates Rudolf Nureyev and Robert Helpmann’s 1973 film in a bold, vibrant production on stage. Expect a dreamy score by veteran 19th-century ballet composer Ludwig Minkus, lush costumes and set design that is bound to transport you back in time. Grab your tickets here.
đź“ŤJoan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House
April 8-25
9. Into the Woods
A brand new production of the classic musical Into the Woods is currently playing in Sydney. This is a show for all age groups with not one but six fairy tales combining for a nostalgic and magical show. The songs stand out in this thrilling and witty play that sees some of the most recognisable fairytale characters including Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood come together. You can snag your tickets here.
đź“ŤBelvoir St Theatre
March 18 – April 30