Mack the Knife

Workshop presentation

Saturday 22 August 2026 | 7:30pm

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Hayes Artistic Directors Richard Carroll and Victoria Falconer, and their collaborator Jordan Shea, invite you to help explore the possibilities of their category-defying new work-in-development.

Welcome to PEACHUMS: part watering hole, part criminal headquarters, and the beating heart of an underworld where everything has a price.

When Polly Peachum discovers that her parents are drowning in debt and desperate for a way out, she finds herself caught between family ambition, political corruption and the chance of a life on her own terms. Soon, sparks fly with the legendary outlaw Macheath as he plans the biggest heist in living memory; as well as the vengeful Mayor Tiger Brown, whose corrupt influence threatens the Peachums’ chances of survival. A deal is struck; a betrayal is set in motion; and a daring deception knocks both Macheath and Polly into the fight of their lives. 

Part musical; part immersive installation; part rock-cabaret; part night-out-at-an- underground-bar, Mack The Knife is a contemporary re-boot of John Gay’s The Beggars Opera and Brecht & Weill’s The Threepenny Opera. The re-imagined story sees the iconic characters of Macheath, Polly, Mr & Mrs Peachum, and Tiger Brown maneuver through a world of secret schemes, double-(and triple-)crosses, shifting alliances, and sweet little lies – while the gleefully anachronistic score fuses re-imagined rock and pop anthems with bold original songs.

And you won’t just watch it, you’ll participate – attendees at this special Festival workshop presentation get an exclusive first look as you are invited to help test and shape the future of this ambitious new show as we work with you to create a truly unique experience for every visitor.

About this workshop presentation

This is a work-in-progress presentation of the show’s current draft, with actors exploring spaces, performing at mic stands and working with the audience to discover the world of the work. There will be no set, costumes or choreography and performers may be holding scripts. We may ask you to get involved, move through different rooms and explore the venue with our cast and the writer, director and/or composer may talk to you directly at the start of the event and throughout to help guide you to have the best audience experience.

 

Prices

Full Price | $39

Festival passport 20% off | $31.20

Content Warnings

Recommended for ages 16+

Times

Saturday 22 August | 7:30pm

Running Time

TBC

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible

Additional Info

Booking Information
Terms & Conditions of Sale

 

FAQs

  • Accessible seating

    A limited number of accessible seats are available in the front row of the theatre (A13-A15). These, as well as Companion seats, can be purchased through the ‘Book Now’ link.

    Please contact the box office on (02) 8065 7337  or visit our Accessibility Page if you have any questions regarding our accessibility.

  • Is the venue accessible?

    Hayes Theatre Co is accessible to everyone. We encourage all customers with access requirements to get in touch with us so we can discuss your requirements. Our theatre includes road-to-stage step-free access, and we have several dedicated accessible seating areas.

    A lift operates from the theatre entrance to the foyer and entry to the auditorium is via the side door located off the balcony for those who have difficulty managing stairs. Please speak to the Box Office Assistant upon arrival at your performance to arrange access. Our staff and volunteer crew will assist in navigating these access points.

  • How do I get there?

    Train, bus, car – whatever your heart desires! Hayes Theatre Co is located in the heart of Potts Point and is just a short walk from the 311-bus stop and Kings Cross Train Station. For more info, head to transportnsw.info

  • Is there parking available?

    Discount parking is available from the Kings Cross Parking Station (entrance on Ward Avenue). Bring your parking ticket with you to the theatre and have it validated at our Box Office for $18 parking. Further discounts apply for parking after 6pm and on weekends.

    Limited 1 hour (free after 5 pm) street parking is available around the area. Please note the parking signs as to restrictions.

  • Are there restrooms available on-site?

    Yes, we have multiple restrooms on-site! At Hayes we welcome gender diversity and encourage everyone to use the restroom that best fits your gender identity or expression.

    There is one accessible toilet on the foyer level. There are also two ambulant toilets located within the male and female bathrooms.

Hayes Theatre Co's Festival of New Work is generously supported by

Mack the Knife

Workshop presentation

Saturday 22 August 2026 | 7:30pm