For many performers, the thought of starring on London’s West End sits somewhere between a dream and a fantasy. For Sam Parkes, it’s now his everyday reality – stepping onto the Cambridge Theatre stage night after night in Matilda The Musical.
It’s an achievement that still leaves him shaking his head.
“Growing up in Australia, the idea of performing in London’s West End felt like this far-off dream, and now I get to be part of such an iconic show here every night. Matilda is such a special story, and to share it on one of the most celebrated stages in the world is something I don’t take for granted. There are definitely moments where I have to pinch myself.”
From full-time training to the world stage
Sam’s career began in one of Sydney’s leading full-time performing arts programs, where he built the versatility to move seamlessly between genres and mediums – a quality that has since defined his career.
Whether dancing on TV shows like The Masked Singer and Young Talent Time, appearing in Baz Luhrmann’s glittering AACTA Awards tribute, or touring the seas with Royal Caribbean, Sam has carved out a reputation as a performer who can do it all. His credits even include cult favourites like Dance Academy (Season 3), a show that inspired a generation of Australian teens.
Moulin Rouge! – a career-defining chapter
Of all those credits, none looms quite as large as Moulin Rouge! The Musical. Sam was part of the original Australian cast and spent nearly three years bringing Baz Luhrmann’s iconic film to life on stage.
That journey wasn’t without its obstacles.
“The standout moment would definitely have to be when we finally opened the show after the Covid lockdown. There had been so much uncertainty, from quickly crossing the border before it closed between Sydney and Melbourne, to two weeks in hotel quarantine, to countless shutdowns. We were originally meant to open in August 2021 but didn’t make it to the stage until November. When we finally did, it felt like such an incredible achievement for everyone involved. We were all so proud of what we had accomplished together as a company.”
Touring a blockbuster production like Moulin Rouge! is no small feat. Eight shows a week, constant travel, and the demand for consistency pushed Sam to new levels of discipline. The experience became the springboard for his next big leap – moving to London to take on the West End.
A leap across continents
Relocating internationally is daunting for any performer, but Sam took the risk.
“The transition over here, I’m not going to lie, was extremely daunting. Coming over with nothing lined up was nerve-wracking. I was lucky to sign with an agent before I left Australia, and about four months after moving I booked Matilda, which was both a relief and really exciting.”
Represented in London by Russell Smith Associates and in Australia by Jeep Management, Sam has been able to navigate both industries with professional support. Still, the move meant starting over completely – no reputation, no established network, no guarantees.
“The biggest challenge has been starting fresh in a country where I didn’t have a reputation or network, having to build everything from scratch. At the same time, it’s been refreshing to start over. It’s pushed me to be more independent, resourceful, and intentional about the opportunities I pursue, and it’s accelerated both my personal and professional growth.”
Advice for aspiring internationals
For young Australians dreaming of performing overseas, Sam’s advice is equal parts honest and encouraging:
“It’s not easy… but it’s so so worth it. Be prepared to start fresh, work hard, and stay persistent. Build your network, keep working on your craft, and look after yourself. Trust yourself and 100% back yourself! London can be big and scary but there is so much opportunity here. Just go for it!”
It’s advice born not just from talent, but from lived experience. Sam knows what it’s like to feel the weight of uncertainty – but also the thrill of making it work.
The heart behind the performer
Beyond the big credits and the global stages, Sam is reflective about what matters most. Asked what he’d tell his younger self, his answer speaks volumes:
“Be patient and kind to yourself. Things won’t always move as quickly as you want them to, and sometimes it’ll feel like you’re not making progress. Putting in the work is tough, but that’s what makes success so sweet. Friends and family are everything – surround yourself with the ones who lift you through every up and down.”
It’s this grounded perspective that makes Sam’s story so powerful. Yes, he’s achieved what many dream of – but he’s also honest about the sacrifices, setbacks, and resilience it takes to get there.
From Young Talent Time to Moulin Rouge! to Matilda in the West End, Sam Parkes is proof that Australian performers can thrive on the world stage. His journey is a masterclass in grit, growth, and grabbing opportunities when they arrive – even when it means leaping into the unknown.
Follow Sam on his IG account: https://www.instagram.com/samparkes/
