The Prom bursts onto the stage in a riot of glitter, sequins, and pure joy, as Broadway comes to small-town America.

When Caroline O’Connor (Dee Dee Allen) and Brendan Monger (Barry Glickman)’s latest Broadway show flops on opening night, following a string of bad reviews, the stars decide to reinvent themselves as celebrity activists, throwing their support behind a young gay girl who just wants to go to the prom, but is ostracised by her community. What follows is their farcical attempt to change the world “one lesbian at a time.”

Directed by Teatro Co-Founder Andrew Bevis, with co-direction and choreography by Nathan M. Wright and musical direction by Craig Renshaw, The Prom is a high-energy, engaging production, that speaks to love and acceptance.

With music by Matthew Sklar, book by Bob Martin and book and lyrics by Chad Beguelin, the musical is filled with laugh-out-loud comedy. From the opening number “Changing Lives”, it’s clear Beguelin’s has crafted songs that are sharp and witty, leaning into outrageous humour, as Barry sings “we’re going to help that little lesbian whether she likes it or not”. Which, given his declaration of “I’m as gay as a buck of wigs”, he arguably earns. Monger’s performance is over the top in the most delightful way.

Vocal strength is a defining feature of this production. Broadway and West End star O’Connor dazzles once again as the diva, bringing her vocal power and comedic precision to the role. Sophie Montague (Emma Nolan) is a powerhouse performer with a strong, clear vocal range, particularly in the softer ballads. “Dance with You” pairs Montague with Paige Fallu (Alyssa Greene), and it’s a sweet portrayal of their genuine affection.

Wright’s choreography shines throughout, particularly in Bella McSporran (Angie Dickerson)’s dance sequence, where she commands attention, cane in hand, with sharp jazz technique and Fosse-inspired movement, as well as in Thern Reynolds (Trent Oliver), who leads the ensemble in “Love Thy Neighbour”.

Stage design by Nick Fry leans into bold colour and sparkle. The school lockers form a kaleidoscope of hot pink, lilac and peach, and even the wine glasses shimmer with glitter. Cornelia Cassimatis’s costumes allow the cast to express their personalities.

The show is camp entertainment for all, a point recognised in the line: “straight people like Broadway too”. When Principal Hawkins (Scott Irwin) explains, “the theatre is how I escape… we look to you in good times and bad,” it captures why audiences seek entertainment.

Vibrant, joyful and absolutely hilarious, The Prom is a spectacle worth seeing.

4 stars

Presented by On Your Feet Australia The Prom is playing at Teatro in Leichardt, Sydney until 26 April 2026.

Run Time: 2 hours and 25 minutes (including interval)

For tickets visit Teatro Italian Forum