Phar Lap

The Electro-Swing Musical

Performances from 17 October 2025

Approximately 90 minutes – no interval

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Book, Music and Lyrics by Steven Kramer

Presented by Hayes Theatre Co

The musical that stops the nation

WORLD PREMIERE

Directed by Sheridan Harbridge

Not just another absurdist, electro-swing musical comedy about a thoroughbred racehorse, Phar Lap is a rags-to-riches story with a big heart. If you’re thinking elaborate life-size puppetry and dazzling special effects, you couldn’t be more wrong (we don’t have the budget). Suspend your disbelief as an actor swaps his horseshoes for tap shoes to play one of Australia’s most beloved icons.

When an awkward, gangly horse from New Zealand meets a hapless, down-on-his-luck, trainer, they embark on a classic underdog story to win the Melbourne Cup, and Australians’ hearts and minds. The road isn’t easy – there are gambling scandals, double-crosses, an attempted shooting, and a career-threatening addiction to sugar. It’s high stakes, high drama, and highly historically accurate.

Phar Lap boasts an irresistible electro-swing score, with inspirations from Duke Ellington to Daft Punk. Brassy, lively and retro – these songs will take you from the race course to the rave hall.

Pop the champagne, harness up, and get ready for a wild ride.

 

Prices

Previews
Adult $69
Concession/Group (8+) $64
Under 35 $55

Mid-Week Matinees
Adult $79
Concession/Group (8+) $69
Under 35 $60

Weeknights & Saturday Matinees
Adult $84
Concession/Group (8+) $74
Under 35 $65

Friday & Saturday Evenings
Adult $89
Concession/Group (8+) $79

*Concession prices apply to Seniors, Pensioners, Students and MEAA members.

Times

Monday 6:30pm
Tuesday – Saturday 7:30pm
Thursday 1:00pm
Saturday 2:00pm

*No matinee performance on Sat 18 Oct
*No matinee performance on Thu 23 Oct
*Post show Q&A on Mon 27 Oct
*Captioned performance on Wed 5 Nov

Running Time

Approx. 90 minutes – no interval

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible

  • Captioned Performance - WED 5 NOV

SEE FULL ACCESS DETAILS

Content Warnings

To be advised.

Additional Info

Booking Information
Terms & Conditions of Sale

  • Creatives

    Director Sheridan Harbridge

  • Accessibility

    Captioned Performance

    Wednesday 5th November at 7:30pm

    Patrons are able to view captions on large screens in Rows E – Rows H.

    Patrons seated in Rows A – Rows D can access the captions via their mobile phones. Instructions and QR codes will be available in the foyer prior to the performance.

    Please contact the Box Office if you require assistance to book seats with a view of the captioning screens (Row E and behind).


    Wheelchair 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 to make onstage bookings and if you have any questions regarding our accessibility.

    For further information on our accessible practices and facilities, please head to our Accessibility Page.

Phar Lap

The Electro-Swing Musical

Performances from 17 October 2025

Approximately 90 minutes – no interval