6 Exciting Musicals in Sydney You Must See in 2026
6 Exciting Musicals in Sydney You Must See in 2026
Preschoolers Kids Teens Family
By: The ellaslist Team, 09 January 2026
6 Exciting Musicals in Sydney You Must See in 2026
By: The ellaslist Team, 09 January 2026
Show us something more feel-good than a musical, and we'll show you a liar. Musicals in Sydney are the ultimate show-stopping way to experience theatre in our books, one that's bursting with music, moves, and incredible energy.
Sydney is set to dazzle with quite the impressive lineup of new musicals in 2026, many of them award-winning works of theatrical art. The stage is set to welcome a thrilling mix of groundbreaking new shows alongside treasured classics, including The Book of Mormon, Pretty Woman, The Lion King,and more. So, hurry up and book those tickets!
6 Exciting Musicals in Sydney You Must See in 2026
1. The Book of Mormon
The Book of Mormon
The uproarious musical sensation The Book of Mormon returns to the Capitol Theatre in 2025.
This nine-time Tony Award®-winning masterpiece, hailed by The New York Times as "the best musical of this century," follows the side-splitting escapades of two mismatched missionaries dispatched to a remote Ugandan village. Their mission? To spread the Good Word amidst challenges that are worlds away from their Salt Lake City upbringing.
The Book of Mormon appeals to families with older teens and adult children who enjoy theatre, comedy, and big Broadway-style productions. Created by the minds behind South Park, the musical is packed with catchy songs, sharp satire, and over-the-top humour that resonates strongly with teens and parents who appreciate irreverent comedy and social commentary. It's fast-paced, visually engaging, and full of laugh-out-loud moments, making it a popular choice for a family night out for mature audiences.
Don't miss out on this theatrical phenomenon that's had audiences worldwide in stitches.
Where: Sydney's Capitol Theatre When: Until 25 January 2026 Cost: Tickets from $99 Age Guide: Recommended for teens aged 16+ Good to Know:The Book of Mormon contains strong language, adult humour, sexual references, and satirical themes, so it's best suited to older teens and adults rather than younger children.
Parking is available at Capitol Square Car Park, located next to the theatre and convenient for evening shows. There are also several other paid car parks nearby, around Haymarket and Chinatown, all within an easy walking distance.
2. Back to the Future: The Musical
Back to the Future: The Musical
Great Scott! Sydney is set to experience a temporal twist as Back to the Future: The Musical makes its Australian debut at the Sydney Lyric Theatre in September 2025.
This stage adaptation of the iconic 1985 film, which clinched the Olivier Award for Best New Musical in 2022, promises to transport audiences on a high-voltage journey through time. Join Marty McFly and the eccentric Doc Brown as they navigate the space-time continuum, ensuring history remains on track.
Australian producer John Frost of Crossroads Live Australia expressed his excitement, stating, "Australian audiences are going to be blown away to see how this iconic story has been recreated for the stage."
So, dust off your DeLorean and set your destination to 2026 at the Sydney Lyric Theatre. This is one theatrical event that's sure to be heavy!
Where: Sydney Lyric, 55 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont When: Until 25 January 2026 Cost: Tickets from $99 Age Guide: Recommended for ages 6+ Good to Know:Back to the Future: The Musical is very family-friendly, with no strong language and plenty of humour, action, and spectacle that appeals to both kids and adults. As always, very young children may find some loud sound effects or darker scenes a little intense.
The Lyric Theatre is pram-friendly, and staff will help you park your pram during the show.
Parking is available at the Star Casino car park, a short, flat walk from the theatre, which is open 24/7. There are also several nearby paid car parks around Pyrmont and Darling Harbour, though these can fill quickly during evening performances, weekends and school holidays.
This glittering stage adaptation of the beloved rom-com is packed with charm, glamour, and all the iconic moments fans adore - plus a few sparkling new surprises.
Hitting the stage at Theatre Royal Sydney from November 2025 until February 2026, Pretty Woman: The Musical is a fun, feel-good night at the theatre for families with older teens or ladies on a girls' night out, bringing the much-loved movie to life with big dance numbers, glamorous costumes, and a sparkling soundtrack. It's a great pick for parents and teens who enjoy romantic comedies and Broadway musicals in Sydney, with plenty of humour and heart to keep everyone entertained.
Where: Theatre Royal Sydney, 108 King St, Sydney When: Until 28 February 2026 Cost: From $159 Age Guide: Recommended for ages 12+ Good to Know:Pretty Woman: The Musical includes mild sexual references and adult themes.
There is no on-site parking at Theatre Royal. The most convenient parking option is Wilson Parking at 175 Castlereagh Street. There are also several other paid car parks within a short walk of Castlereagh Street and Pitt Street
Upcoming Musicals Announced for 2026
4. ANASTASIA
Get set for a memorable musical adventure with 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: From 7 April 2026 Cost: From $139.90 Age Guide: Recommended for ages 7+ Good to Know:ANASTASIA is suitable for school-aged children, tweens and teens. There are a few darker or more dramatic moments and themes of loss and danger, which may feel intense for very young children, but most kids aged seven and up should find it engaging rather than scary.
The Lyric Theatre is pram-friendly, and staff will help you park your pram during the show.
The best parking place when attending a show at the Lyric is the Star Casino car park. It's a short walk away and open 24/7. There are also paid car parks around Pyrmont and Darling Harbour.
5. The Lion King
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: Sydney Lyric, 55 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont When: From 1 April 2026 Cost: From $150 Age Guide: Recommended for ages 6+ Good to Know: Most children from around six years and up can enjoy the story, music and visual spectacle, while younger kids may find some darker scenes, loud moments or animal characters a little intense.
The Lyric Theatre is pram-friendly, and staff will help you park your pram during the show.
For parking at the Lyric, the Star Casino car park is a short walk away and open 24/7. There are also paid car parks around Pyrmont and Darling Harbour.
6. The Phantom of the Opera
Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour presents The Phantom of the Opera.
Another new musical in Sydney to add to your list, Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour returns with a spectacular open-air production of The Phantom of the Opera, transforming Sydney's iconic waterfront into one of the most dramatic theatre settings in the world.
With the city skyline and harbour as its backdrop, this large-scale staging elevates the beloved musical to an entirely new level, combining soaring vocals, elaborate sets, and immersive lighting in a way that feels both grand and intimate.
Set to Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic score, the story of mystery, obsession, and romance unfolds under the stars, creating an atmosphere that's impossible to replicate indoors. From the sweeping overture to the unforgettable chandelier moments, The Phantom of the Opera at Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is a truly cinematic experience, blending world-class musical theatre with one of Sydney's most extraordinary outdoor venues.
Where: Mrs Macquarie's Point, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney When: 27 March to 3 May 2026 Cost: From $150 Age Guide: Recommended for ages 10+ Good to Know: Phantom of the Opera is suitable for young children, though some scenes, characters, and darker moments may be intense for them. Older kids, teens and adults usually find it thrilling rather than scary.
The event is well set up to support a range of access needs. There are step-free pathways to the venue, accessible seating, and accessible toilets on site.
Insider Tips for Families Attending Musicals
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
1. 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.
2. Which musicals in Sydney are suitable for families?
Sydney regularly hosts several family-friendly favourites, with productions like The Lion King, Back to the Future: The Musical, and ANASTASIA impressing kids. These shows balance engaging storytelling with eye-catching visuals and music that appeal to audiences across generations.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Are there budget-friendly musicals or discount days available?
Families can often save by attending preview performances, weekday shows, or early-bird pricing. Some theatres also release last-minute deals closer to opening nights.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. Are all the musicals listed verified for 2026 accuracy?
Yes, all included musicals are checked against official 2026 announcements to ensure details are current at the time of publication.
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