In the 1890s, with an economic depression and widespread unemployment, a group of Australians set out for Paraguay, in South America, to establish a Socialist society. Their leader was the charismatic writer and orator Billy Lane, and colonists included Dave Stevenson, the cousin of Robert Louis Stevenson, and Mary Cameron, who later became Dame Mary Gilmore – commemorated today on the ten-dollar note. 

UTOPIA is a new musical celebrating this little-known noble experiment. The songs range in style from Australian bush ballads to romantic melodies to fiery Spanish dance tunes. This 60 minute performance is not to be missed!

UTOPIA is written by Clarry Evans and Denny Lawrence who also directs. Featuring a renowned cast of Queensland performers – Lizzie Moore (Opera Queensland), Elliot Baker (Friends! The Musical Parody), Matthew Newnham (QPAC’s Macbeth), Connor Hawkins (Trocadero, Brave New World Order), Cassie George (Live At The Trocadero), and the mercurial, violin-totin’ Liz Young. This exciting new musical, with a four-piece orchestra under the leadership of musical director Sante d’Ettorre, will play at The Basement Theatre @ Twelfth Night.