The musical theatre scene is in a state of flux, and it's not just Australia that's feeling the pinch. While some shows are struggling to find an audience, others are thriving, proving that there's still life in the old art form. Take Grey Gardens, for example. This small but mighty musical, adapted from a documentary about a reclusive mother and daughter, is shining like a rare gem in a production that fully mines its wit and tragic impulse. Directed with a granular attention to detail and sensitivity to the musical's intricate effects, Grey Gardens is a profoundly moving chamber ensemble rather than a crass commercial juggernaut. It's a testament to the power of adaptation led by complexity, conviction, and high degrees of artistry. In contrast, some producers are resorting to lazy and cynical adaptations of teen films from the 80s and 90s, which are often exploitative and forgettable. These shows are designed as dopamine hits of nostalgia, and they deserve to fail. The success of Grey Gardens and other homegrown productions like My Brilliant Career and Middle Raged proves that Australians can create and produce work of rigour and relevance. It's also worth noting that younger generations embrace musical theatre just as enthusiastically as we have in the past, and the world-class standard of performance in this country remains undiminished. However, the industry is facing challenges, including astronomical transportation costs and the impact of the pandemic on the performing arts. Producers should avoid panic and instead embrace the opportunity to create something new and innovative. The future of musical theatre is uncertain, but with a healthy mix of populist and deeper fare, and a focus on artistic integrity, the industry can thrive once again.
