Melbourne’s vibrant theatre scene in 2024 promises an eclectic lineup of musical shows set to entertain audiences of all ages.
Whether you’re a fan of Broadway hits or avant-garde pieces, Melbourne theatres are hosting an array of shows that will leave you spellbound.
Join us as we navigate through the best musicals and theatre shows Melbourne has to offer in 2024, showcasing the rich performances that make Melbourne arguably the home of musical shows in Australia.
The Must-See Musicals Melbourne Has Lined Up in 2024
1. Groundhog Day The Musical
Groundhog Day is the much-anticipated musical, bringing its time-looping magic to the Princess Theatre from February 2024. The Tim Minchin-written show is exclusive to Melbourne and there are no extensions, so don’t miss out on the Melbourne shows!
Set in the charming town of Punxsutawney, the story follows Phil Connors on his journey of self-discovery and redemption.
Ideal for families seeking an enchanting evening, the show blends humour with poignant themes, making it a hit among parents and older kids alike (the recommended age range is 12+ years). Tickets span from $60 to $250, ensuring a range of options for every budget.
Groundhog Day The Musical | February – 20 April 2024 | Princess Theatre Melbourne
2. RENT
RENT, the iconic Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning musical, is making its return to Melbourne’s theatre scene in 2024.
Known for its powerful narrative and memorable score, including hits like “Seasons of Love” and “La Vie Bohème,” RENT is a must-see for Melbourne parents seeking a moving theatre experience.
While the themes and content may be more suited to older children and adults, it offers a valuable perspective on resilience, community, and living every moment to the fullest.
There are only a limited number of Melbourne shows at Arts Centre Melbourne, with ticket prices ranging from $60 to $160.
RENT | February – 7 March 2024 | Arts Centre Melbourne
3. The Rocky Horror Show
Dive into the eccentric world of The Rocky Horror Show as it electrifies Melbourne in 2024.
This cult classic invites Melbourne parents for a thrilling night out, featuring unforgettable characters and iconic musical numbers. Due to its mature themes and content, it’s more suitable for a parents’ night out rather than a family outing with young kids.
With tickets available from $70 to over $180, you don’t want to miss out on the hit show that has captivated audiences for decades.
Rocky Horror Show | February – 23 March 2024 | Athenaeum Theatre
4. Much Ado About Nothing
Experience Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing like you’ve never seen before in Melbourne 2024.
Shakespeare Australia has infused the classic tale with a soundtrack filled with 90s pop and rock hits, transforming Shakespeare’s beloved comedy into a rock spectacle.
Set in the great outdoors of the Royal Botanical Gardens Melbourne, book tickets for a perfect summer evening outing. Ideal for families, this bold and energetic adaptation promises laughter, romance, and a lively atmosphere.
Tickets are available until mid-March, with adult tickets starting at $55 and kid’s prices beginning at just $25.
Much Ado About Nothing | 23 February – 17 March 2024 | Royal Botanical Gardens Melbourne
5. Ruthless! The Musical | 1 – 24 March 2024 | Alex Theatre
Be swept off your feet by Ruthless! the Musical, the ultimate camp extravaganza that’s taking Melbourne by storm.
This uproarious production, featuring Dolly Diamond as Sylvia St. Croix, is your ticket to a night filled with laughter, outrageous antics, and a touch of wicked fun. Follow the ambitious 8-year-old Tina Denmark on her quest for stardom, where she’ll do anything for the spotlight.
Don’t miss this side-splitting Melbourne show that’s been acclaimed as “malicious, delicious and a total joy!” starting at just $65 a ticket. Perfect for a parents’ night out, the show’s humour is best suited for an adult audience.
Ruthless! The Musical | 1 – 24 March 2024 | Alex Theatre
6. Wicked
Melbourne families, get excited about the return of Wicked at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre! This highly anticipated musical in Melbourne is a family-friendly journey to the Land of Oz.
This acclaimed production delves into the backstory of Oz’s most notorious characters, offering a twist on the classic tale. Wicked is ideal for a family night out with its universal themes and kid-appropriate humour. The show boasts an array of ticket options, starting at around the $100 mark.
Secure your spot for a magical journey complete with unforgettable melodies and a heartwarming message about friendship and identity.
Wicked | 2 March – 2 June 2024 | Regent Theatre Melbourne
7. Chicago
Step into the sultry world of Chicago at Her Majesty’s Theatre, where the jazz is hot and the stakes are high.
This musical masterpiece is more suited for parents looking for an escape into the roaring ’20s, as it delves into themes of celebrity, scandal, and debauchery that might not be suitable for younger audiences.
Ticket prices vary from $70 to $200 to accommodate different budgets, ensuring everyone can partake in the razzle-dazzle.
Make it a date night or a friends’ night out, and settle in for one of Broadway’s longest-running hits.
Chicago | 23 March – 26 May 2024 | Her Majesty’s Theatre
8. Sunset Boulevard
Sunset Boulevard, a mesmerising journey into the golden age of Hollywood, graces the stage at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre from May 2024.
As the thematic depth of this iconic musical puts the age range at 12 and up, it makes for a fantastic choice for parents seeking a sophisticated night out.
With ticket prices ranging from $70 to $300, theatre lovers with all budgets can immerse themselves in the poignant story of fame, faded glory, and unfulfilled dreams, set to a hauntingly beautiful score.
Sunset Boulevard | 21 May – 28 July 2024 | Princess Theatre
9. Club Vegas
Experience the electrifying atmosphere of Club Vegas. Perfect for parents seeking a fun night out without the little ones, this show is an adults-only affair, capturing the essence of Sin City’s legendary nightlife.
Hosted at the iconic Athenaeum Theatre, you can pick up tickets to this one for just $79. Running from May to June 2024, Club Vegas stands out as a top pick for those wanting a taste of Vegas’ legendary shows.
Club Vegas | 29 May – 2 June 2024 | Athenaeum Theatre
10. Beauty and the Beast
Step into the magical world of Beauty and the Beast, a family-friendly musical extravaganza in Melbourne.
Perfect for a heartwarming night out with the kids, the show brings the classic Disney story to the stage with spellbinding performances and iconic songs.
With tickets starting at $70, you and your children can be part of the magic that will take place in Her Majesty’s Theatre from June through to October.
Beauty and the Beast | 27 June – 13 October 2024 | Her Majesty’s Theatre
11. Tina The Tina Turner Musical
Experience the unstoppable spirit of Tina Turner with Tina: The Tina Turner Musical in Melbourne. This Melbourne theatre show celebrates resilience and music, making it a compelling watch for families with older kids.
The musical opens at the Princess Theatre in September 2024, with ticket prices starting at $56.
Join in to relive Tina Turner’s most memorable moments and songs in a production praised for its dynamic performances and empowering narrative.
Tina The Tina Turner Musical | 24 September – 1 December 2024 | Princess Theatre
12. Sister Act the Musical
The Broadway and UK smash hit musical Sister Act is coming direct from London’s West End to the Regent Theatre in Melbourne in November 2024.
Disco diva Deloris’ life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder. Placed under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she shouldn’t be found – a convent! Encouraged to help the struggling choir, she helps her fellow sisters find their true voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.
Based on the iconic film starring Whoopi Goldberg and featuring original music by Tony® and 8-time Oscar® award-winner Alan Menken (Disney’s Aladdin, Enchanted) and songs inspired by Motown, soul and disco, this heavenly musical is joyous and uplifting and a great family night out!
Sister Act the Musical | November 2024, Regent Theatre
13. Grease the Musical
GREASE is back in an all-new production that promises to be slicker, sexier, and more electrifying than ever before.
It’s one of the world’s most iconic and loved musicals and nothing beats the feeling you get, going back to Rydell High. Danny, Sandy, Kenickie, Rizzo and the whole gang are back to give you a night out, like only GREASE can.
Witness rising stars Joseph Spanti (Danny) and Annelise Hall (Sandy) take on two of the most iconic roles and light up the stage alongside an all-star cast.
Australia’s own Patti Newton will be ringing the school bell as the much-loved Miss Lynch, Jay Laga’aia is set to sizzle as Vince Fontaine and the incomparable Marcia Hines will bring Teen Angel to life in this multi-million-dollar production.
Grease the Musical | Until 16 March 2024, Her Majesty’s Theatre
14. Sweeney Todd
From the haunting melodies of Stephen Sondheim to the chilling narrative crafted by Hugh Wheeler, this production transports you to the dark heart of London’s Fleet Street. Witness the transformation of a once-content barber into the infamous “demon barber,” a suave and perilous figure with his rising desire for vengeance. Alongside the beguiling and eccentric Mrs. Lovett, they hatch a twisted plan — equal parts genius and ghastly. Mrs Lovett’s reputation of serving the best pies in town may be short-lived as Sweeney’s thirst for vengeance teeters on the razor’s edge.
Starring the powerhouse duo of Ben Mingay (Sweeney Todd) and Antoinette Halloran (Mrs Lovett) this is your chance to see why TimeOut described them as a ‘juggernaut’ and ‘perfect’.
Considered one of the most powerful, dramatic and theatrical horror tales ever set to music, this masterpiece of musical theatre will leave hearts racing and spines tingling long after the final curtain falls.
Sweeney Todd | 14 September – 21 September 2024, Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse
Tips for going to the theatre with kids
Best family-friendly dining in Melbourne CBD
Best Chinatown restaurants
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase using the links there is no extra cost to you and we earn a small commission that helps us to continue to provide valuable and useful information for you.
The post Ultimate Guide to the Best Musical Shows In Melbourne 2024 appeared first on TOT: HOT OR NOT
