As incredible as 2022 was for theatre in Sydney, 2023 is looking to be even better. In January, eager theatre lovers can expect everything from giant Broadway productions to niche, homegrown acts. Highlights include Sydney Opera House’s giant production of Amadeus and Sydney Festival’s Afrique en Cirque. Welcome the year in style with these excellent shows in Sydney this January.
1. Amadeus
Amadeus has come to town as part of the Opera House’s 50th-anniversary celebrations. The play has opened to unanimous praise in large part due to Michael Sheen’s exemplary performance as Italian classical composer, Antonio Salieri. Theatre, opera and classical music come together in this production that is a must-see for classical music lovers.
đź“ŤConcert Hall, Sydney Opera House
December 27-January 21, 2023
2. Cinderella
The long-awaited Tony Award-winning Broadway production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella promises a magical time for the young and old alike. Expect dreamy costumes, stunning set design and fun little twists to the beloved classic in this Broadway favourite.
đź“ŤSydney Lyric Theatre
December 1 – January 29, 2023
3. Don Giovanni
David McVicar’s celebrated production of Don Giovanni, the dramatic tale of the infamous Casanova’s final days has made its grand return to the Sydney Opera House this January. Expect murder, revenge, and paranormal intervention in one of Mozart’s most highly regarded operas.
đź“ŤSydney Opera House
January 5 – February 17
4. 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 coming to 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 – March 4
5. Come From Away
Tony and Olivier award-winning musical, Come From Away follows the real-life journey of 7,000 air passengers, who were grounded in Canada after the tragic events of September 11.
đź“ŤTheatre Royal Sydney
Until January 29
6. La Bohème
Sydney Opera House is starting the year with a bang. Take a trip to 1930s Berlin with the celebrated production of La Bohème, which is returning to the Opera House for its 200th performance. Puccini’s enduring story of love persevering throughout life’s trials is universally loved and takes guests on a dreamy journey with stunning sets, costumes and music.
đź“ŤThe Grand Electric
January 12 – March 11
7. Afrique en Cirque
Sydney Festival 2023 has officially kicked off with art, theatre, music and so much more taking over the city. Part of the stacked program is Afrique en Cirque — a thrilling blend of acrobatics, music and choreography that celebrates the diversity of traditional African arts through an exciting contemporary circus showcase.
đź“ŤRiverside Theatre, Parramatta
January 6-15
8. Hubris and Humiliation
This laugh-out-loud comedy is a tribute to Jane Austen’s celebrated dramas and better yet, it’s set in the Emerald City. Helpmann Award-winning director Dean Bryant and playwright Lewis Treston join hands for this production. Expect Muriel’s Wedding-meets-Kath & Kim with all the queer fabulousness of Priscilla Queen of the Desert. Consider us sold.
đź“ŤSydney Theatre Company
January 20-March 4
9. Velvet Rewired
It looks like January is all about glitter, disco, acrobats and fun. Adding to the list is Velvet Rewired, a love letter to disco. Led by Marcia Hines, an evening of acrobats, aerialists and vocalists, disco and groovy music awaits you in this new production.
đź“ŤSydney Opera House
December 22 – February 12, 2023
10. Moulin Rouge! The Musical
The Capitol Theatre is currently glittering like never before. This OTT and exuberant Parisian tale follows Christian, a young poet who falls in love with the star of the Moulin Rouge, cabaret actress and courtesan Satine. Expect all the glitz, glamour and energy from the original movie — which was incidentally shot in Sydney, in this massive and hugely entertaining production. Snag your tickets here.
đź“ŤCapitol Theatre
May 28, 2022 – January 28, 2023