Melbourne’s vibrant theatre scene in 2025 promises an eclectic line-up of musical shows set to entertain audiences of all ages.
Whether you’re a fan of Broadway hits or avant-garde pieces, Melbourne is hosting the best musicals and theatre shows in 2025 & 2026, making the city arguably the home of musical shows in Australia.
The Must-See Musicals Melbourne Has Lined Up in 2025
1. ANASTASIA The Broadway Musical
For the first time ever, Australian audiences will experience the romance, mystery and adventure of ANASTASIA The Broadway Musical.
This dazzling production brings the beloved film to life on stage with breathtaking sets, lavish costumes and unforgettable songs including Journey to the Past and Once Upon a December. Follow Anya, a courageous young woman determined to uncover the truth of her past, as she embarks on an epic journey filled with danger, love and hope.
ANASTASIA The Broadway Musical | 20 December 2025 – 11 Jan 2026 | Princess Theatre
2. MJ The Musical
This Olivier and multiple Tony Award®-winning production celebrates Michael Jackson’s artistry like never before, taking audiences behind the scenes of his 1992 Dangerous World Tour. More than just the iconic moves and unforgettable hits, the show reveals the creative mind and collaborative energy that made Jackson a global legend.
With direction and choreography by Tony Award® winner Christopher Wheeldon and a book by Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, this electrifying musical is a must-see for music lovers of all ages.
MJ The Musical | From 9 Sept 2025 – 3 Feb 2026 | Her Majesty’s Theatre
3. CATS
Experience the enchantment of CATS, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s celebrated musical, as it marks its 40th Anniversary in Australia at Hamer Hall. Adapted from T.S.
Eliot’s whimsical poetry, this captivating performance features stunning visuals and unforgettable melodies. Join the Jellicle Ball and discover which cat will ascend to The Heaviside Layer!
CATS | 21 Dec 2025 – 11 Jan 2026 | Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne
4. The Nutcracker
The traditional Christmas ballet performance, The Nutcracker, will feature new sets and world-class dancers. This production promises to fill your heart with Christmas spirit.
It’s a timeless Christmas classic that is sure to provide a wonderful holiday experience for all!
The Nutcracker, Princess Theatre
Tue 16 Dec – Wed 31 Dec 2025, From $59.90
5. Beauty and the Beast in Concert
Step into a tale as old as time when the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra brings Disney’s Beauty and the Beast to life at Hamer Hall on 10–11 April 2026.
Audiences will enjoy the beloved animated film on the big screen as the MSO and Chorus perform Alan Menken’s Academy Award®-winning score live in concert. With its timeless story of love and enchantment, unforgettable characters, and soaring music, this special event promises a truly magical experience for all ages.
Beauty and the Beast | 10 – 11 April 2026 | Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne
6. Gilbert & Sullivan: A Musical Celebration
Get ready for a night of wit, whimsy and wonderful music with Gilbert & Sullivan: A Musical Celebration. This sparkling concert brings the best of the legendary duo’s operettas to life, from the comic chaos of The Pirates of Penzance and H.M.S. Pinafore to the topsy-turvy humour of The Mikado and Iolanthe.
Performed by an all-star cast of operatic talents alongside Orchestra Victoria, audiences can expect mischievous humour, soaring melodies and a playful journey through the works that shaped the worlds of theatre, music and satire. A must-see for lovers of classic musical storytelling.
Gilbert & Sullivan: A Musical Celebration | 22 – 24 May 2026 | Regent Theatre
7. Encore! Songs from the Musicals
Celebrate 70 years of Opera Australia with Encore! Songs from the Musicals, a glittering showcase of showstoppers from the world’s most beloved productions. From the romance of The Phantom of the Opera and West Side Story to the timeless charm of My Fair Lady and Guys & Dolls, this unforgettable concert brings together favourites from Broadway and beyond.
Performed by an outstanding cast of musical theatre stars and accompanied by the incredible Orchestra Victoria, it’s a night of toe-tapping tunes and soaring melodies that will sweep you off your feet. A true celebration of musical theatre magic.
Encore! Songs from the Musicals | 28 – 30 May 2026 | Regent Theatre
8. Duck Pond
Be swept into a glittering fusion of ballet, circus, and pure theatrical brilliance when Duck Pond takes over the Princess Theatre this January.
Feathers will fly in this playful, exuberant reimagining of Swan Lake. Created by Circa, one of the world’s most celebrated circus companies, Duck Pond blends romance, humour, and breathtaking acrobatics into a spectacle you’ll want to share. It’s a story you thought you knew, transformed into something you’ll never forget.
Duck Pond | 14 – 26 Jan 2026 | Princess Theatre
9. A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical
Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A Beautiful Noise is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-topping, show-stopping rock icon. With more than 140 million albums sold, timeless hits like America, Forever in Blue Jeans and Sweet Caroline, inductions into both the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and sold-out concerts across the globe, Neil Diamond’s story was destined for the stage.
From the Australian producers of Jersey Boys and TINA – The Tina Turner Musical, A Beautiful Noise is an inspiring, exhilarating musical memoir. Set to the songs that defined a generation, it brings to life the untold story of America’s greatest hitmaker in spectacular Broadway style.
A Beautiful Noise | from August 2026 | Princess Theatre
10. Shrek The Musical
Dive into the enchanting realm of “Shrek The Musical” at the Playhouse this summer!
This captivating production showcases a blend of romance, laughter, and adventure with an ogre, a talkative donkey, and a spirited princess. Perfect for families, it’s a delightful take on a beloved animated classic.
Shrek The Musical | 7 – 10 Jan 2026 | Playhouse Theatre
11. A Christmas Carol
Experience the timeless tale of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol in Melbourne as the award-winning Old Vic production returns to Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre this holiday season. It returns with a new Melbourne cast in 2025. Read our review.
A Christmas Carol | 27 Nov – 30 Dec 2025 | ComedyTheatre
12. Book of Mormon
Australia’s most celebrated musical comedy, The Book of Mormon, is back at the Princess Theatre this February! Created by the minds behind South Park, this outrageous show blends humour and irreverence, following the adventures of two missionaries.
The Book of Mormon | From Feb 2026 | Princess Theatre
13. Waitress
Join Jenna, a talented pie maker, in the acclaimed musical Waitress as it makes its Melbourne debut! With a captivating score by Sara Bareilles and direction by Diane Paulus, this enchanting story celebrates resilience, friendship, and the sweet pursuit of happiness, reminding us all that change is possible and rewarding.
Waitress | From 1 May – 31 May 2026 | Her Majesty’s Theatre
14. SIX the musical
SIX the Musical returns to Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre in July 2026!
This acclaimed production offers a dynamic retelling of the lives of Henry VIII’s wives, blending history with pop music. Suitable for ages10 and up, the show features performances, vibrant visuals, and engaging that resonate.
SIX the Musical | 24 Jul – 23 Aug 2026 | Comedy Theatre
15. Come Alive! Melbourne
Step into the Hippodrome as COME ALIVE! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular arrives in Melbourne at Caulfield Racecourse in Feb 2027.
Featuring iconic songs like “This Is Me” and breathtaking acrobatics, this live show promises an unforgettable night, whether you’re a fan of the film or love live entertainment.
Come Alive! Melbourne | 25 Feb – 4 Apr 2027 | Caulfield Racecourse
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