By D’Arcy Niland
Adapted for the stage by Kate Mulvany
Directed by Jessica Arthur

A love song to the open road and a father-daughter bond that blooms in a harsh and unforgiving world.

Bathed in the golden light of an outback sunset, this epic Australian classic comes to the stage for the first time, adapted by Kate Mulvany – the renowned actor and playwright behind The Harp in the South: Part One and Part Two and Playing Beatie Bow. The Shiralee combines a ranging and poetic story of life and love on the margins with a spectacular cast featuring Mulvany herself, Josh McConville, Aaron Pedersen and Ziggy Resnick.

Macauley (McConville) is a rugged swagman who roams the highways and byways of mid-century Australia, taking on odd jobs to survive. Buster (Resnick) is Macauley’s young daughter, living with her separated mother Marge (Mulvany), in a neglectful home in Sydney. When Macauley discovers Buster’s circumstances he takes her on the road with him, despite his hesitations around fatherhood. Over the course of their travels, Macauley begins to develop a deep connection with his daughter, and Buster soon discovers her voice in a strange and vast new world.

Approx. duration 2 hr 10 mins (including interval)
Content Strong language, mature themes including violence, alcohol and drug addiction

DATE: Tuesday 21 October 2025

TIME: 6.30pm

VENUE: Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House

TICKETS: To buy your tickets visit https://www.sydneytheatre.com.au/whats-on

 Cherry has purchased tickets J20 and J21

PRE-THEATRE: (Optional): Meet in the foyer of the Drama Theatre at 5.30pm for Drinks/Snacks

RSVP TO: Cherry Spoor at [email protected]) BY 15 October 2025 if you plan to join us for pre-theatre refreshments.

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THEATRE GROUP – Looking Ahead in 2025

To enable you to plan your diary for 2025, below are the dates and selected plays for Theatre Group for the remainder of 2025.

Newcomers to SWIC are very welcome – if you need help with booking or have any queries, please contact Cherry Spoor at [email protected]