The Australian Musical Theatre Festival has announced its highly anticipated 2026 program — a dazzling celebration of artistry, collaboration and storytelling set to transform Launceston from 20–24 May 2026. Led by Artistic Director Tyran Parke, the festival promises an unforgettable blend of concerts, cabaret, conversations, workshops and late-night magic, anchored in a newly revitalised precinct centred around the refurbished Albert Hall.
Returning after a triumphant debut in 2025, the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra will once again join forces with a remarkable line-up of visiting and homegrown performers, creating a five-day program that celebrates the breadth and brilliance of Australian and international musical theatre talent.
Parke shared, “The Australian Musical Theatre Festival continues to evolve and expand, and, in 2026, we take up residence in the Albert Hall, fresh from a $20 million refurbishment. Brilliantly located and offering multiple spaces for unexpected performances, it’s the perfect place to welcome so many stars to Launceston in May.”
In a major announcement, beloved Australian stage icon Nancye Hayes AM has been appointed Festival Patron. Accepting the role, Hayes reflected, “The 2025 Festival reminded me why I fell in love with musical theatre… It is a privilege to be Patron of a Festival that champions excellence while nurturing emerging talent.”
Festival Highlights
Well Behaved Women
The 2026 Festival opens with Carmel Dean’s acclaimed musical — a soaring 75-minute celebration of the trailblazing women who demanded to be heard. Described as “a roof-raising celebration of female resilience,” this bold and invigorating work sets an exhilarating tone for the festival.
Opening Night Gala
An elegant hour-long showcase inside the newly refurbished Albert Hall, bringing together an extraordinary ensemble of visiting artists, rising talent and festival guests.
The Diva Den
The festival’s shimmering late-night hub returns — a space for spontaneous performances, unrehearsed brilliance, and unforgettable moments shared between audiences and artists.
Choir in the Pub
A favourite tradition led by Launceston’s own Travis Hennessy — a joyful night where every voice becomes part of the show.
Seeing Is Believing
Delia Hannah and Tyran Parke share an intimate evening of story and song, celebrating mentorship, artistry and the connections that shape a creative life.
Foyer Door Concert
A free, high-energy showcase of contemporary musical theatre performed by emerging artists — a first look at songs destined for future stages.
A Musical Theatre Mix-Up: The Records That Shaped a Legend
Festival Patron Nancye Hayes AM streams live from Melbourne for a heartfelt conversation about the recordings and artists that shaped her extraordinary career.
The Frogs
Sondheim at his most playful — a witty, absurd romp filled with battling playwrights, argumentative frogs and a joyful message about the importance of art.
Buskers Alley
The beloved laneway festival returns, transforming a charming Launceston street into a bustling Broadway-style showcase for emerging performers.
Youth Karaoke
A lively night for young performers inside The Diva Den — a celebration of courage, community and showtunes.
Broadway Showstoppers
Following a sold-out 2025 performance, the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra joins festival artists for a spectacular evening of musical theatre magic — from Rodgers & Hammerstein to the Gershwins.
Pride and Prejudice: An Adaptation in Words and Music
Starring Nadine Garner, this elegant production weaves Jane Austen’s text with Carl Davis’s beloved score inside the historic Clarendon Estate.
Made in Tasmania – Rob Mallett: Stories & Songs
Tasmanian talent Rob Mallett reflects on his path from local stages to global success in an intimate evening of story and song.
Jack ‘n’ Gin
The Festival’s signature finale returns — pairing Jack Lark’s soaring vocals with Tasmania’s finest gins for an unforgettable night at Clarendon Estate.
The Australian Musical Theatre Festival continues to establish itself as one of the country’s most inspiring celebrations of creativity, community and craft. With a program rich in artistry and heart, Launceston is set to come alive in May 2026.
Bookings and enquiries https://www.amtf.
