My Brilliant Career

Southbank Theatre came to life last night with the opening of "My Brilliant Career." This creative adaptation of Miles Franklin's beloved novel offers a fresh take on the struggles and aspirations of a young woman, Sybylla Melvyn, in late 19th-century Australia. Made in Melbourne, the play was adapted by musical theatre duo, Matthew Frank and Dean Bryant alongside Sheridan Harbridge. Running for 2 hours and 20 minutes, the production weaves together a rich tapestry that incorporates songs, dance, and humor.

Kala Gare leads the charge with her incredible performance as Sybylla Melvyn. Gare’s depth and nuance are superb and capture Sybylla's fierce independence and artistic ambition, making her relatable to a modern audience. The supporting cast complements Gare's performance beautifully, with each character interchanging roles and helping to bring Sybylla's world to life. Harry/Peter, played by Raj Labade, was exceptional as Sybylla’s love interest and wowed the audience with his whip-cracking skills, effectively transporting them to a bygone era through his authentic performance.

Drew Livingston, who played Sybylla’s father as well as Jay-Jay and M’Swat, was a standout, and his comedic delivery was perfection. Directed by Anne-Louise Sarks, the play effectively depicts the Australian landscape and the constraints of a patriarchal society. The set and costume design by Marg Howell, along with evocative lighting by Matt Scott, transport the audience to Sybylla's era, enhancing the narrative's emotional pull.

Musically, the score enriches the storytelling, and Gare’s voice draws you in with every note. The clever and seamless integration of music and dialogue ensures the narrative flows smoothly and keeps the audience fully engaged throughout the entire performance.

Overall, "My Brilliant Career" is enthralling as it balances humor with timeless themes of gender, ambition, and self-discovery. It powerfully demonstrates what someone can achieve with tenacity and dedication while not allowing societal pressures of gender to overshadow their dreams.