Pictured: Ellen Simpson (Choreographer), Steven Kramer (Book, music, Lyrics) & Sheridan Harbridge (Director)
Over two vibrant opening nights at The Hayes Theatre in Potts Point, I was invited to photograph guests as they arrived to celebrate the launch of Phar Lap – the brand new electro-swing musical about Australia’s beloved racehorse with the big heart.
Set against a large Phar Lap banner and the theatre’s red carpet, I photographed a stream of excited theatre-goers, cast members, and supporters as they entered the venue. This kind of photography isn’t my usual genre — I’m more often behind the lens at rehearsals and production shoots — but I really enjoyed the fast-paced, spontaneous interaction with people as they arrived. There’s something energising about these quick moments of connection: a brief exchange, a smile, and a frame that captures the anticipation of opening night.
It was a wonderful experience to be part of the buzz and celebration surrounding this fresh, lively musical that reimagines one of Australia’s most iconic stories.
Happy to hear it has been a SOLD-OUT season at the Hayes Theatre.
I’ve had the pleasure of contributing photography to the current production at the Hayes Theatre, Phar Lap – The Musical. This brand-new Australian work takes inspiration from the legendary racehorse Phar Lap and the mythology that surrounds him, blending history, humour and heart into a sharp, witty and wonderfully entertaining story.
My involvement began back in July with an initial studio shoot designed to create key promotional imagery for the production. During that session, I also captured a series of interviews with the cast, director and writer — offering insight into the creative process and the unique spirit of the show as it took shape.
Pictured: Justin Smith (plays Harry Telford, Joel Granger (plays Phar Lap), Sheridan Harbridge (Director) and Steven Kramer (Writer, music and lyrics)
More recently, I photographed the dress rehearsal, capturing the energy and visual richness of the full production. These images are now being used to further promote the season and highlight the incredible performances and vibrant staging that make this show such a standout.
I loved the music…..Phar Lap boasts an irresistible electro-swing score, with inspirations from Duke Ellington to Daft Punk. Brassy, lively and retro. I was concentrating on the photography, the angles, the action however, I found myself tapping my leg and moving to the beat.
The season is now in full swing at the Hayes, and it’s brilliant — smartly written, beautifully performed, and exceptionally funny. It’s always a thrill to collaborate with the team at Hayes Theatre and to help visually tell the story of a production that so perfectly celebrates Australian talent and storytelling.
Starring Shay Debney, Lincoln Elliott, Joel Granger, Manon Gunderson-Briggs, Amy Hack, Nat Jobe, Joey Phyland and Justin Smith.
Director Sheridan Harbridge Musical Supervisor Steven Kramer Musical Director David Gardos Choreographer Ellen Simpson Associate Director & Stage Manager Daniel Cottier Set Designer Hailley Hunt Costume Designer Mason Browne Lighting Designer Trent Suidgeest Sound Designer Liam Roche Arranger & Orchestrator Jack Earle Orchestrator & Track Producer Steve Toulmin Associate Track Producer Glenn Moorhouse Ableton/Keyboard Programmer David Youings Sound Content Designer Matty James Production Manager Damion Holling Assistant Stage Manager Nathan Sandy Sound Engineer Em-Jay Dwyer Set Design Assistant Adrien Stark Costume Design Assistant Jess Dilworth Musical Director’s Assistant Lauren Shaw Intimacy Coordinator Chloë Dallimore
I recently returned to Cumberland High School to capture the latest phase of the impressive upgrade by Roberts Co. This visit marked the completion of the latest phase of the project (there is more to come), with the final extension of classrooms now in place, alongside a brand-new high school building designed to house woodwork, technical studies, and other hands-on learning activities.
A standout addition is the state-of-the-art gymnasium and multi-purpose meeting hall, both built with a clear focus on functionality, light, and space. The architecture and finishes speak to a modern learning environment—one that feels open, inspiring, and well considered.
The transformation of Cumberland High has been remarkable to witness over the course of construction. With handover approaching, it’s easy to imagine how much the students and staff will appreciate their revitalised campus—ready for a new chapter of learning and community.
