Broadway’s greatest hits take the stage

SONGS from timeless musicals including Singin' in the Rain, The Phantom of the Opera and Grease will take centre stage in Off Broadway, coming to Lismore this August.

Rather than focusing on a single production, Off Broadway brings together music and scenes from across the history of musical theatre, tracing the evolution of the genre through the works of some of its most influential composers, writers and choreographers.

Audiences can expect everything from the enduring classics of Rodgers and Hammerstein to the blockbuster hits of Andrew Lloyd Webber and contemporary musical theatre favourites.

The show highlights the changing styles, themes and storytelling techniques that have shaped Broadway and musical theatre around the world.

The brand-new production is presented by the creative team behind the touring shows Celtic Illusion, Ballroom Blitz and The Greatest Christmas Show, and forms part of a five-week national tour beginning in Victoria.

Choreographer and performer Rachael Peters said it was rewarding to bring musical theatre to regional communities that may not have the same opportunities to experience large-scale productions as audiences in major cities.

Peters said her love of musicals began at an early age through a dance teacher who was involved in musical theatre, and she feels honoured to help inspire the next generation of performers and theatre lovers.

"It's a bit of an escape from reality and can take you to another world," she said.

Songs from Wicked, Sweet Charity and Chicago also feature in the production.

Off Broadway will be performed at the Star Court Theatre in Lismore on Thursday 6 August and Twin Towns on Friday 7 August. Tickets are available through TryBooking.