Be charmed by the theatrical retail fairytale Ladies in Black
Anyone who’s worked in retail can tell you how incredibly dry the industry can be – from lazy bosses to know-it-all customers, most people hardly think of department stores as much more than a place to buy stuff. However, there was a time in history when the humble ‘shop’ was far more than it appeared – these institutions were a beacon of prestige and a conduit for social change. Coming to QPAC from January 28 to February 19 to lift the change-room curtain is Ladies in Black, a musical extravaganza that will have you looking at your local Myer in a whole new light.
Ladies in Black takes place in late 1950s Sydney, a time when the city was on the brink of a glorious liberation period. Yet to be crushed by the weight of the world, bright-eyed and bookish Lisa takes a job at the city’s fancy F.G. Goodes department store. Going against her father’s wishes to do the ‘done thing’ of becoming a homemaker or secretary, Lisa is thrust into a colourful world of modern possibilities when she befriends the ladies of the cocktail frocks department where she works. Under the guidance of the exotic Magda, Lisa’s eyes are opened to dreams she never thought possible.
The production returns to Queensland following a nationwide tour steeped in critical acclaim. Based on Madeleine St John’s novel The Women in Black, the musical adaptation includes a talented team that has brought the story to the stage. The beloved Tim Finn’s music and lyrics combine beautifully with Carolyn Burns’ book to create a toe-tapping, magical and modern feel-good story. Things heat up even further with Simon Phillips in the director’s seat, adding to his already jaw-dropping resume that includes Priscilla Queen of the Desert, The Musical, Love Never Dies and Dream Lover. This Helpmann Award-winning effort really reflects the diversity of the team behind it, resulting in an irresistible genre-bending production.
If this has got you craving a bit of musical retail therapy, you can snap up tickets to Ladies in Black through QPAC.
To find out more about what’s on in Brisbane, head to our Event Guide.
