Sydney’s theatre scene is set for an incredible year, with blockbuster Broadway hits, family favourites and brand-new productions arriving across the city in 2026. Whether you’re planning a girls’ night out, a date night, or introducing the kids to live theatre for the first time, there’s something magical waiting on stage with these top musicals in Sydney 2026.
From iconic Disney productions to heartfelt classics and exciting Australian premieres, here are the best musicals and musical theatre shows to see in Sydney in 2026. Use our quicklinks to explore below:
- Phantom of the Opera
- The Lion King
- Pretty Woman: The Musical
- Anastasia
- Waitress
- Fiddler on the Roof
- SIX The Musical
- Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical
- Evil Dead: The Musical
Best Musicals in Sydney 2026
Pretty Woman: The Musical
The iconic Hollywood romance steps onto the Sydney stage with a glamorous musical adaptation featuring a lively original score by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance. Expect big choreography, dazzling costumes and all the memorable moments from the film — with a fresh theatrical twist.
- When: Now until 29 March 2026
- Where: Theatre Royal, 108 King Street, Sydney
- Cost: From approx. $69+
- Age: Recommended 12+
- Website: prettywomanthemusical.com.au
Evil Dead: The Musical
For something completely different, this cult-favourite horror comedy musical brings outrageous humour, splatter effects and rock music to the stage. Based on the classic film franchise, it’s quirky, chaotic and wildly entertaining.
When five college students venture to an abandoned cabin in the woods, they accidentally unleash an evil force that turns them all into demons. It’s up to Ash, a housewares clerk turned chainsaw-wielding hero, to save the day!
- When: 20 February – 21 March 2026
- Where: Seymour Centre, Chippendale
- Cost: From $79
- Age: 16+
- Website: evildeadmusical.com.au
The Phantom of the Opera (Opera Australia Production)
This large-scale musical production delivers the sweeping romance and dramatic spectacle that theatre lovers expect.
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s global phenomenon returns on its 40th anniversary to Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour in a critically acclaimed spectacular. Forty years ago, The Phantom of the Opera burst onto the West End, becoming a sensation unlike anything the world had ever seen. Celebrate Phantom’s milestone anniversary in grand style, with the hotly anticipated return of our larger-than-life staging on Sydney Harbour.
- When: 27 March – 3 May 2026
- Where: Fleet Steps, Mrs Macquaries Point, Sydney Harbour
- Cost: From $108
- Age: Recommended 10+
- Website: opera.org.au
The Lion King
One of the world’s most loved stage productions returns to Sydney in 2026, bringing its breathtaking puppetry, unforgettable music and stunning visual storytelling back to the Capitol Theatre.
Giraffes strut, birds swoop, and gazelles leap as the African savanna bursts to life right before your eyes. Seen by more than 124 million people worldwide, this spectacular stage show is famous for its incredible costumes, powerful music and storytelling that captivates both kids and adults. It’s truly one of those theatre experiences you never forget.
- When: From April 2026 (limited season)
- Where: Capitol Theatre, Haymarket
- Cost: From approx. $79+ (varies by session)
- Age: Recommended 6+
- Website: thelionkingmusical.com.au
Anastasia: The Hit Broadway Musical
Inspired by the beloved animated film, Anastasia arrives in Sydney for the first time in 2026. This musical adventure follows a young woman searching for her identity as she journeys from imperial Russia to 1920s Paris. With soaring songs, romance and spectacular staging, it’s expected to be one of the year’s most popular shows.
- When: 7 April – 5 July 2026
- Where: Sydney Lyric Theatre, Pyrmont
- Cost: From approx. $99+
- Age: Recommended 8+
- Website: anastasiathemusical.com.au
Waitress
Broadway hit Waitress finally bakes its way into Sydney in 2026. Featuring music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles, this heartfelt musical tells the story of Jenna, a pie-making waitress dreaming of a fresh start. When a baking contest, an unexpected new romance and the support of her fellow waitresses offer her a taste of change, Jenna discovers that the secret ingredient to happiness might be closer than she ever imagined. Funny, emotional and packed with beautiful songs, it’s a favourite for girls’ nights.
- When: 1 August – 20 September 2026
- Where: Sydney Lyric Theatre, Pyrmont
- Cost: From approx. $69+
- Age: Recommended 13+
- Website: waitressthemusical.com.au
Fiddler on the Roof
The acclaimed London production of Fiddler on the Roof heads to Sydney in 2026, bringing new life to the timeless musical about tradition, family and change. Featuring iconic songs like If I Were a Rich Man, this revival is a celebration of love and life.
It’s 1905 in the tiny village of Anatevka, where Tevye, a milkman, lives his life by their proud traditions. For his five daughters, this means a visit from the matchmaker. As each daughter challenges his beliefs, against the backdrop of a changing world, can Tevye hold on to his roots, or must he bend to the will of his children and learn to embrace the unfamiliar?
- When: 31 July – 6 September 2026
- Where: Theatre Royal, 108 King Street, Sydney
- Cost: TBC (expected from $69+)
- Age: Recommended 10+
- Website: https://fiddlerontherooftour.com/
SIX The Musical
History gets a pop-concert makeover when Henry VIII’s six wives take the stage to remix their stories in this global smash hit. Fast-paced, funny and packed with chart-style songs, SIX is hugely popular.
From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anna of Cleves, Katherine Howard and Catherine Parr are ready to turn up the mic once again, remixing five hundred years of history into an 80-minute electrifying pop-concert fit for royalty.
- When: October 2026 (return season)
- Where: Theatre Royal, 108 King Street, Sydney
- Cost: From approx. $69+
- Age: Recommended 10+
- Website: sixthemusical.com.au
Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical
A major new Australian musical premieres in Sydney, celebrating the story behind John Farnham’s legendary Whispering Jack album. The production explores the pivotal years that transformed Farnham’s career and features the songs Australians know and love.
In an outer-Melbourne suburban garage in 1986, Farnham, with a new band and manager Glenn Wheatley, began work on an album and a song called “You’re the Voice” that would transform his career and their lives. This is the story of an overnight sensation, 20 years in the making.
- When: November 2026
- Where: Roslyn Packer Theatre, 22 Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay
- Cost: From $79
- Age: Recommended 12+
- Website: sydneytheatre.com.au
Planning Your Theatre Night
A night at the theatre is one of Sydney’s most memorable outings — but a little planning can make the experience far more relaxing.
Here are a few helpful tips to make your musical night run smoothly:
Book Dinner Early
Sydney’s theatre precincts get busy before curtain time, and popular restaurants often fill quickly on show nights. Many venues near major theatres offer dedicated pre-theatre dining menus designed to get you fed and seated on time, but bookings are strongly recommended. Restaurants around the Capitol Theatre and in the CBD are typically within a short walking distance, making it easy to enjoy dinner before the show without rushing.
Tip: Aim to book dinner at least 90 minutes before showtime so you can arrive at the theatre relaxed rather than racing the clock.
Plan Parking Ahead
City parking can add stress if left to the last minute, so it’s worth deciding where you’ll park before leaving home.
Theatres like Theatre Royal Sydney partner with nearby car parks and sometimes send discounted parking offers in pre-show emails.
Capitol Theatre visitors can use nearby undercover parking at Capitol Square or Market City, both located within easy walking distance.
Evening and weekend flat-rate parking is often available in CBD car parks, making theatre nights more affordable.
Tip: Pre-book parking online where possible. Be aware that exiting after a sold-out show can take time, so allow a little buffer.
Consider Public Transport
Many Sydney theatres are conveniently located close to major transport hubs. For example, the Capitol Theatre is only a short walk from Central Station, making trains an easy option.
Late-evening train services also mean you can avoid post-show traffic altogether.
Arrive Earlier Than You Think
Theatre foyers typically open well before performances, giving you time to:
- Collect tickets
- Grab drinks or snacks
- Visit the bathroom (always a queue at intervals!)
- Settle kids before the show starts
Bars and refreshments often open around 90 minutes prior to curtain time, so arriving early helps the evening feel part of the experience rather than a rush.
Make It a Full Night Out
Turn your musical visit into a mini city adventure:
- Enjoy dessert or a post-show drink nearby
- Take a short stroll through Darling Harbour or the CBD lights
- Book a matinee and follow with dinner instead (great for families)
