Sydney's theatre calendar is bursting into song in 2026, with blockbuster family favourites, Broadway hits, open-air spectaculars and classic revivals all taking centre stage. We've rounded up the best musicals in Sydney playing now and coming soon, including dates, venues, ticket prices and age guides to help families choose the right show.

Whether you're planning a special family night out, booking ahead for the school holidays or introducing the kids to their very first big musical, there's plenty worth singing about. So, hurry up and book those tickets!

Please note: These shows are accurate as of May 2026. We update this guide regularly as new Sydney musicals are announced.

Table of Contents

Sydney Musicals in 2026

Disney's The Lion King
Anastasia
Come Alive! Greatest Showman
Hair
Fiddler on the Roof
Waitress
My Fair Lady
Six the Musical
Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical
Beetlejuice The Musical

Sydney Musicals in 2027

Moulin Rouge! The Musical
 

1. The Lion King Musical

 

One of the most highly anticipated new musicals in Sydney, The Lion King is one of the most visually spectacular productions to ever hit the stage, and its Sydney season is set to draw audiences from around the world.

Bringing the beloved story to life through breathtaking puppetry, bold choreography, and an instantly recognisable score by Elton John and Tim Rice, the production transforms the theatre into the vast landscapes of the African savanna from the very first moment. Even if you've seen the movies countless times, watching the story of Simba unfold on stage feels completely fresh and unforgettable.

Families love The Lion King for its powerful music, visually stunning scenes, and themes of courage, friendship and finding your place in the world. It's an especially great choice for a first musical, as the storytelling is easy to follow and the spectacle keeps younger viewers engaged from start to finish.

Where:  Capitol Theatre, 13 Campbell Street, Haymarket
When:   Until 5 July 2026
Cost:     From $80
Age Guide: Recommended for ages 6+

2. ANASTASIA

Families with young ones will be thrilled to learn that ANASTASIA is one of the most exciting upcoming musicals in Sydney, that's set to sprinkle the same level of magic as the much-loved Disney movie!

Based on the treasured animated film, the show follows Anastasia's journey from her mysterious past to a dazzling new future, complete with sweeping music, stunning costumes, and plenty of wow moments that feel tailor-made for a family theatre outing.

With its fairy-tale feel, memorable songs, and a strong, brave heroine at the heart of the story, ANASTASIA is especially well-suited to families with school-aged children and teens. There are a few darker moments and dramatic scenes along the way, but nothing too intense for confident young theatre-goers. If you're looking for a musical that balances romance, humour, and spectacle while still feeling accessible for families, this one is shaping up to be a very special night out at the theatre!

Where:     Sydney Lyric, 55 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont
When:      Until 19 July 2026
Cost:        From $69.90
Age Guide: Recommended for ages 7+

3. Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular

The dazzling live production Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular is coming to the Entertainment Quarter, delivering a high-energy theatrical experience inspired by the beloved film The Greatest Showman.

Blending circus artistry, electrifying music and immersive staging, this musical-inspired live spectacular promises a feast for the senses under the big top.

Families will be thoroughly entertained by a vibrant fusion of acrobatics, aerial feats, dance, and live performance, set to the movie's chart-topping soundtrack. Designed to capture the magic and wonder of P.T. Barnum's vision, the production celebrates individuality, imagination and the joy of embracing what makes us unique.

With dazzling costumes, breathtaking stunts and a carnival-like atmosphere, it offers an unforgettable experience for theatre lovers and families alike.

Where:   The Big Top at The Entertainment Quarter
When:    19 May to 9 August 2026
Cost:      From $60
Age Guide: Recommended for ages 5+

4. HAIR

Sydney's Theatre Royal is getting a serious dose of peace, love and rock 'n' roll when HAIR The Musical arrives for a strictly limited season in 2026.

One of the most famous musicals of all time, HAIR celebrates the free-spirited energy of the 1960s counterculture, complete with barefoot rebellion, big ideas, bold characters and an iconic rock score. Audiences can expect legendary songs, including "Aquarius", "Good Morning", "Starshine", and "Let The Sunshine In", all wrapped into a production that explores identity, community, freedom, protest, and what it means to be young in a rapidly changing world.

While it's a major musical theatre moment for Sydney, HAIR is best suited to older teens and adults rather than young families. The production includes mature themes, strong language, sexual content, references to drug use, nudity, political themes and depictions of violence, so it's one to book for grown-ups or mature theatre-loving teens.

Where:   Theatre Royal Sydney, 108 King Street
When:     6 June to 11 July 2026
Cost:       From $69
Age Guide: Recommended for ages 16+

5. Fiddler on the Roof

The timeless classic Fiddler on the Roof is bringing one of the most cherished musicals in theatre history to the Sydney stage! 

Renowned for its powerful storytelling, rich cultural heritage and unforgettable score, this iconic production continues to resonate with audiences around the world, and is one of the most hotly anticipated new musicals in Sydney in 2026.

Set in the small Jewish village of Anatevka in early 20th-century Imperial Russia, the story follows Tevye, a humble milkman striving to uphold cherished traditions while navigating a rapidly changing world. As his daughters challenge long-held customs in pursuit of love and independence, Tevye must balance faith, family and the pressures of modernity. The result is a deeply moving narrative that explores themes of identity, resilience and the enduring strength of community.

Featuring music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick and a book by Joseph Stein, the show boasts some of the most beloved songs ever written for the stage. Classics such as "Tradition", "If I Were a Rich Man", "Matchmaker, Matchmaker" , and "Sunrise, Sunset" have secured their place as cornerstones of musical theatre, blending heartfelt emotion with moments of humour and joy.

Fiddler on the Roof offers a powerful theatrical experience that speaks to universal themes of love, change and belonging, making it as relevant today as when it first premiered on Broadway in 1964.

Fiddler on the Roof is generally recommended for audiences aged 10 and over. While it is suitable for families and older children, the story includes themes of prejudice, displacement and cultural upheaval that may prompt meaningful discussions. Parental discretion is advised for younger viewers, but for many, it provides an enriching introduction to one of theatre’s most treasured masterpieces.

Where:     Theatre Royal Sydney, 108 King Street
When:      31 July to 3 October 2026
Cost:        From $69
Age Guide: Recommended for ages 8+

6. Waitress The Musical

The beloved Broadway sensation Waitress is set to delight Sydney audiences when it arrives at the Sydney Lyric Theatre in 2026.

Celebrated around the world for its heartfelt storytelling and memorable music, this uplifting musical blends humour, romance and resilience into a thoroughly enjoyable theatrical experience.

Based on the acclaimed 2007 film by Adrienne Shelly, the story follows Jenna, a talented pie-maker working in a small-town diner. Dreaming of a better life beyond an unhappy marriage, Jenna finds solace in baking and begins to imagine a new future. With the support of her loyal friends and a dash of courage, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery that is both poignant and inspiring.

A standout feature of Waitress is its original score by Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles. Her soulful, contemporary songs, including the iconic "She Used to Be Mine", bring emotional depth and authenticity to the production, elevating it to one of the most cherished modern musicals. With a book by Jessie Nelson and direction by Tony Award-winner Diane Paulus, the show has earned international acclaim for its warmth, wit and empowering message.

Audiences can expect a richly layered performance filled with laughter, heartfelt moments and a touch of sweetness. Known for its charming characters, relatable themes and beautifully crafted music, Waitress serves up a theatrical experience that resonates long after the final curtain call.

Where:     Sydney Lyric, 55 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont
When:      1 August to 4 October 2026
Cost:        From $69.90
Age Guide: Recommended for ages 12+

7. My Fair Lady

A true musical theatre classic is making a grand return to Sydney, with My Fair Lady taking over the Joan Sutherland Theatre at the Sydney Opera House in 2026.

Celebrating 70 years since its Broadway debut, Lerner and Loewe's beloved musical follows Eliza Doolittle, a spirited Cockney flower girl whose life takes an unexpected turn when phonetics professor Henry Higgins sets out to transform the way she speaks. What follows is a witty, elegant, and surprisingly heartfelt story about identity, class, confidence, and change, set against lavish costumes, unforgettable characters, and one of musical theatre's most treasured scores.

This Opera Australia production is based on the 2016 Australian staging directed by Julie Andrews, with Karen Johnson Mortimer at the helm for its Sydney return. Families can swoon at all the famous songs, including "Wouldn't It Be Loverly?", "I Could Have Danced All Night" and "Get Me to the Church on Time", making it a lovely pick for families with older kids, grandparents, musical-loving teens and anyone who enjoys a polished classic with plenty of charm. The Sydney Opera House lists the production as suitable for all ages, with a runtime of around 180 minutes including an interval.

Where:   Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House
When:    12 September to 25 October 2026
Cost:      From $89
Age Guide: Recommended for ages 8+

8. SIX The Musical

Bold, witty and unapologetically modern, SIX the Musical delivers a dazzling pop-powered retelling of royal history to the stage at the Theatre Royal Sydney.

This global sensation reimagines the six wives of Henry VIII as fierce pop divas, each reclaiming her story through an electrifying concert-style performance that has captivated audiences worldwide.

With a dynamic score spanning pop, R&B and hip-hop, the show transforms centuries-old history into a high-energy celebration of empowerment and individuality. Written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, SIX delivers razor-sharp humour, infectious choreography and chart-topping hits such as "Ex-Wives", "Don’t Lose Ur Head" and the anthemic "Six". The result is a vibrant, fast-paced musical in Sydney, complete with a powerhouse all-female cast and a live band known as the Ladies in Waiting.

Running for approximately 80 minutes without an interval, the show is an ideal choice for both seasoned theatre lovers and first-time audiences. SIX is generally recommended for audiences aged 10 and over. While suitable for older children and teenagers, the production includes some mature themes and innuendo presented in a playful, comedic manner. 

Where:     Theatre Royal Sydney, 108 King St, Sydney
When:      From 9 October 2026
Cost:        TBC
Age Guide: Recommended for ages 10+

9. Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical

"You're the Voice..." and now you can hear it live on stage! Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical is the world premiere production from Sydney Theatre Company that Farnham fans have been waiting for.

Timed to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the highest-selling Australian album of all time, the musical takes audiences behind the scenes of the five extraordinary years that transformed a broke former teen idol into the voice of a nation. Set largely in a suburban Melbourne garage in 1986, the story follows Farnham and his manager, Glenn Wheatley, as they work on the album and the song that would change everything. At its heart, it's a tale of second chances, friendship, family and what happens when someone refuses to give up on themselves.

Vocal powerhouse Michael Paynter (who led the 2025 Australian season of Jesus Christ Superstar and has toured with Farnham himself) takes on the role of the legend, bringing Farnham's warmth, mischief and unmistakable voice to the Roslyn Packer Theatre stage. And as for the hits, they'll all be featured, including "You're the Voice", "Age of Reason", "Two Strong Hearts", "Pressure Down" and more.

This one is squarely aimed at adults and older teens who grew up with Farnham's music. Parents, please note this show contains strong language and is a STC production rather than a family blockbuster. But for parents who spent the late '80s and '90s singing along to Whispering Jack, it's basically a perfect night out without the kids.

Where: Roslyn Packer Theatre, 22 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay
When:  Previews 15-24 November 2026; Season 26 November to 27 December 2026
Age Guide: Recommended for ages 15+
Cost:  $123 to $191

10. Beetlejuice The Musical

Beetlejuice The Musical is set to raise a little hell at Sydney's Capitol Theatre in November 2026, bringing Tim Burton's cult classic back from the dead in big, brash Broadway style!

Fans of the movie will know the drill: a newly deceased couple, one very strange family, a wonderfully gloomy teen and a striped-suited agent of chaos who really, really should not be trusted with a microphone. On stage, the whole thing gets a turbo-charged musical makeover, with wild sets, darkly funny one-liners, supernatural shenanigans and songs by Australian composer Eddie Perfect.

After making a ghoulishly good name for itself on Broadway, Beetlejuice The Musical is landing in Sydney with plenty of bite, a lot of bad behaviour and just enough heart to stop it floating off into the Netherworld completely. It's spooky, silly, a bit naughty and definitely not one for the tiny tots, but for teens and adults who like their musicals loud, weird and wickedly fun, this is one 2026 musical worth summoning.

Where:   Sydney's Capitol Theatre
When:    21 November 2026 to 10 January 2027
Cost:      Tickets from $119
Age Guide: Recommended for ages 14+

And in 2027...

11. Moulin Rouge! The Musical

 

Based on Baz Luhrmann's iconic film, the dazzling stage production of Moulin Rouge! brings the famous Parisian nightclub to life with a whirlwind of romance, drama, glittering costumes, high-energy choreography and a mega mash-up soundtrack featuring more than 70 iconic songs. It's big, bold and gloriously over-the-top in all the right ways, with plenty of pop-fuelled moments that theatre fans will want to book well ahead for.

The 2027 Sydney season will feature an all-new Australian cast and marks the show's return after a hugely successful national tour.

While teens may love the music, spectacle and sheer theatrical drama, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is best suited to older audiences. Ticketmaster notes that the production includes flashing lights, strobe lighting, fog, loud bangs and the appearance of firearms onstage, so families with younger or sensory-sensitive children may want to keep this one for a grown-ups' night out or older teens.

Where:   Sydney Lyric, 55 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont
When:    From March 2027
Cost:      From $89
Age Guide: Best suited to teens and adults

Insider Tips for Families Attending Musicals in Sydney

Take the stress out of planning your next trip to the theatre with these insider tips for families:

• Arriving 30-45 minutes before curtain up is ideal, giving you time to collect tickets, settle in, visit the bathroom and find snacks without the last-minute rush. It also means kids can take in the buzz of the foyer before heading to their seats, which often helps them feel more excited and relaxed once the show starts.
• Public transport is often the easiest option, especially for city theatres where parking can be limited or expensive.
• If you do drive, aim to book parking in advance and allow extra time for walking to the venue.
• For younger kids, choosing aisle seats can make bathroom breaks less stressful, and it's worth checking the show's running time so you know what to expect. 
• Make the most of the interval to grab a snack, stretch legs, and plan a quick bathroom visit before queues build up.
• Prams are welcome in theatre foyers, but they usually need to be parked outside the seating area, so arriving early helps secure space.
• Having a quick chat with kids about theatre etiquette can make a big difference. Remind them about the importance of staying seated, using an inside voice, and clapping at the end of songs.
• Setting expectations beforehand helps everyone enjoy the performance and turns your theatre trip into a fun, feel-good family outing rather than a stressful one.

FAQs For Families

What is the best musical in Sydney for young kids right now?

For children under 8, the standout pick in 2026 is The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular at the Entertainment Quarter. It's high energy, visually spectacular and doesn't require kids to follow a complex plot. For slightly older children aged 6 and up, Disney's The Lion King at the Capitol Theatre is the gold standard: the puppetry alone keeps young viewers transfixed from the opening scene. Both kid-friendly musicals are running through winter 2026 and are worth booking well ahead.

What age is The Lion King suitable for? 

Disney's The Lion King is officially recommended for ages 6 and up, though many families bring confident 4 and 5-year-olds without issue.

The show runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including an interval, so it helps if your child is comfortable sitting for longer periods. The opening scene — "Circle of Life" with the full puppet parade — tends to be overwhelming in the best possible way, so prepare younger kids for something loud and spectacular right from the start.

How do I choose the right musical for my family?

Start by checking the recommended age guide, as it provides a good sense of the show's themes, language, and intensity. Think about what your kids enjoy most, whether that's familiar stories, big dance numbers or spectacular stage effects, and keep show length in mind too, especially for younger theatre-goers.

Which musicals in Sydney are suitable for families? 

Sydney regularly hosts several family-friendly favourites, with productions like The Lion King, Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular and ANASTASIA are impressing kids. These shows balance engaging storytelling with eye-catching visuals and music that appeal to audiences across generations.

What musicals are coming to Sydney in 2026 and 2027?

Sydney's theatre calendar is packed in 2026 and 2027. Currently running or coming soon: Disney's The Lion King (Capitol Theatre, from April 2026), Anastasia (Sydney Lyric, April-July 2026), My Fair Lady (Sydney Opera House, 2026), Fiddler on the Roof (Theatre Royal, July-September 2026), Hair (Theatre Royal, June-July 2026), Waitress (2026), Six the Musical (Theatre Royal, from October 2026), and Moulin Rouge! The Musical (Sydney Lyric, from March 2027). Check individual venue websites for exact dates and tickets as new seasons are regularly announced.

How long do musicals in Sydney usually run for?

Most musicals run for around 2 to 2.5 hours, including an interval. Shorter runtimes can suit younger audiences, while older kids and teens generally manage longer shows comfortably.

What time do Sydney musicals usually start? 

Evening performances typically begin around 7 or 7.30 pm, while matinee shows are usually scheduled between 1 and 2 pm. Matinees are often a popular choice for families wanting an earlier finish.

How early should I book tickets for popular musicals? 

For big-name shows, it's best to book as soon as tickets go on sale, as popular performances can sell out weeks or even months in advance, especially during school holidays.

Are there budget-friendly musicals or discount days available?

Families can often save by attending preview performances, weekday shows, or by taking advantage of early-bird pricing. Some theatres also release last-minute deals closer to opening nights.

Is it worth seeing a musical in Sydney for the first time with kids?

Absolutely, and Sydney is a brilliant city to do it in. The Capitol Theatre, Sydney Lyric and Theatre Royal are all intimate enough that there's no bad seat, and the production values of touring shows here rival anything you'd see in London's West End.

If it's your child's first musical, choose something with a story they already know and love. The Lion King or Anastasia are both ideal first experiences because the familiarity of the story helps kids follow along even when the staging is overwhelming.

What should families know before attending a theatre show in Sydney?

Arriving early helps you find seats, settle your children, and use the bathroom before the show starts. Intervals are an excellent chance for snack breaks. Seating layouts vary, so checking seat views in advance can be helpful.

Do Sydney theatres allow late entry?

Many theatres restrict late entry to minimise disruption and may only allow latecomers in during specific breaks in the performance, so arriving on time is strongly recommended.

Which Sydney theatres are easiest to access with prams?

Most major Sydney theatres offer accessibility support, including pram-friendly entry points and storage options, but space can be limited. It's best to check the venue's accessibility information in advance.

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