The Sunshine Club Written & Directed by Wesley Enoch

Music by John Rodgers

Heralded as a “brilliant new landmark in Australian musicals” (The Australian), The Sunshine Club is written and directed by proud Noonuccal Nuugi man Wesley Enoch AM, an acclaimed creative force in Australian Theatre. This energetic and engaging musical play has a variety of music styles, with 28 songs composed by the esteemed John Rodgers. 

It tells the story of Frank Doyle, an Aboriginal serviceman who has come home from World War II to find that although the wider world may have changed, attitudes back home in Brisbane are just the same. Filled with a defiant energy and ambition for a better life, Frank starts The Sunshine Club, a place where black and white can meet and, most importantly, dance. Here he dreams of a future where he can dance in step with Rose, the girl next door, the girl of his dreams. 

The award-winning Sunshine Club is a thought provoking, vibrant and above all joyful night of theatre and music, featuring a talented cast of 11, including emerging and established First Nations artists, and a 5 piece live band. It is perfect for audiences seeking entertaining, socially relevant work, at a time of heightened social discourse on Indigenous Affairs, as Australia looks towards ‘incorporating’ the Indigenous Voice to Parliament by 2024.

“The openness and joy radiating from The Sunshine Club is certain to make your spirits soar.”Sydney Morning Herald

“An unashamedly feel-good musical.”The Australian

Creative Team
Wesley Enoch – Writer & Director
John Rodgers – Composer

Cast
Frank Doyle - Garret Lyon
Rose Morris - Claire Warrillow
Aunty Faith Doyle - Alexis West
Reverend Percy Morris - Dale Pengelly
Pearl Doyle - Naarah
Dave Daylight - Tibian Wyles
Peter Walsh / Doorman / Jimmy - Trent Owers
Pauly O'Brien / Bill Harris / Ghost - Colin Smith
Patti Maguire / (Rose Cover) - Samantha Leclaire
Mavis Moreton / Lorry Hocking - Jade Lomas-Ronan

Produced by

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body.