Merry & Bright

Never underestimate an 80-year-old. They’ve got a lot less to lose.

WORLD PREMIERE

Shirley has been playing Mrs. Claus at David Jones for forty years. Ever since she landed the role from a cattle call in 1983 out at a warehouse in Mascot, she’s taken pride and joy in taping down the white wig, patting on the rouge, and blowing the dust off her sparkling one-liners to delight children and parents as Santa’s finest off-sider. But this year, she turns up to work in early November, and is unceremoniously given her notice. Mrs Claus, say The Management, is “lacking in relevance”.

A devastated Shirley decides to pick herself up and do battle on the fourth floor of David Jones – battling Millennial elves, screaming children and men-in-suits who feel she’s simply not up to it anymore. It’s a fight for survival, and Shirley resolves to arm herself with the relevant data and the appropriate KPIs to front the board and make it known she’s not going anywhere.

The incomparable Nancye Hayes weaves her magic in this new play with music, crafted specially for her by award-winning playwright Jordan Shea.

 

Prices

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

Mid-Week Matinees
Adult $74
Concession/Group (8+) $69
Under 35 $55

Weeknights & Weekend Matinees
Adult $79
Concession/Group (8+) $74
Under 35 $65

Friday, Saturday & Sunday Evenings
Adult $84
Concession/Group (8+) $79

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

Times

Wednesday – Saturday 7:30pm
Thursday 1:00pm
Saturday 2:00pm
Sunday 1:00pm & 5:00pm

*No matinee performance on Sat 29 Nov
*No matinee performance on Thu 4 Dec
*Post show Q&A on Wed 10 Dec
*Captioned performance on Wed 17 Dec

Running Time

Approx. 75 minutes – no interval

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible

  • Captioned Performance - WED 17 DEC

SEE FULL ACCESS DETAILS

Content Warnings

Some strong language, and references to drugs and alcohol.
Use of theatrical haze and flashing lights.

Additional Info

Booking Information
Terms & Conditions of Sale

  • Cast & Creatives

    Starring Nancye Hayes

    Director Richard Carroll
    Musical Director Victoria Falconer

     

  • Accessibility

    Captioned Performance

    Wednesday 17th December 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.