PhotographingNaomi Price’s “Christmas Actually”is always a joy — and this year’s Sydney performances were no exception. A brilliantly fun, festive, and utterly entertaining variety show, it’s easy to see why Naomi’s show has become a beloved holiday tradition.
From her witty storytelling to the energetic musical numbers, every moment bursts with humour, sparkle, and theatrical flair. The audience is swept along for the ride, laughing, singing, and celebrating the season with Naomi and her talented cast.
For a photographer, it’s a dream: vibrant costumes, dynamic staging, and a performer who’s utterly expressive and captivating on stage. Every frame tells a story — a little chaotic, a lot joyous, and entirely in the spirit of the holidays.
“Christmas Actually” is more than a show; it’s an experience — one that spreads cheer, showcases incredible talent, and reminds you why live theatre is so special.
I had a blast photographing the dress rehearsal for Barbra: The Greatest Star at Hayes Theatre Co — and even at rehearsal level, this show was already dazzling.
Starring Tana Laga’aia, Laura Murphy, Stellar Perry and Brittanie Shipway, this joyous tribute to Barbra Streisand is a high-voltage celebration of one of the great careers in music and performance. Each performer brings their own voice, personality and theatrical flair to this extraordinary songbook.
The staging is gloriously over the top and unapologetically camp — big gestures, bold design moments and exuberant performances that perfectly match the larger-than-life spirit of the material.
And what a repertoire it is: an incredible parade of Streisand classics, from soaring ballads to brassy anthems and more intimate musical moments, all delivered with wit, precision and serious vocal firepower.
Even at dress rehearsal, the energy in the room was electric — and if these images are anything to go by, audiences are in for a spectacular, joyful night at the theatre.
Barbra: The Greatest Star runs at Hayes Theatre Co from 21 January to 14 February 2026. (See link for tickets:)
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
Australian singer, songwriter, and performer Prinnie Stevens has long been celebrated for her powerhouse vocals, magnetic stage presence, and versatility across soul, R&B, pop, and musical theatre. From her standout performances on The Voice to starring roles in stage productions and her acclaimed show Lady Sings the Blues, Prinnie has built a reputation as one of the country’s most dynamic and inspiring artists.
We were back in my Lilyfield studio for a fresh round of photos, based on new ideas and forthcoming shows. Prinnie’s creative energy and professionalism always make for a dynamic shoot, and this session was no exception.
We reunited the same team who worked together on her stunning Lady Sings the Blues campaign — myself behind the camera and our brilliant make-up and hair by Joe and Drew, from The Glow up Headquarters (instagram: @theglowuphq). It’s a combination that clicks, bringing the right balance of skill, trust, and fun into the room.
The day flowed with laughter, music, and plenty of creativity. Shoots like this remind me how rewarding it is to collaborate with talented and committed professionals. When everyone brings their best, the results speak for themselves — beautiful, powerful imagery that captures Prinnie at her absolute best.
I can’t wait to share the finished selected images from this session. In this blog I’ve posted a few out-takes for a behind the scenes look at the shoot.
I have been shooting the work of Charles Cooper over many years and more recently a new collection which he is about to show at Annandale Galleries. Charles is a seasoned mid-career Australian artist with an impressive exhibition history.
“Geographics 2025” – Charles Cooper at Annandale Galleries Exhibition Dates: 17 September – 18 October 2025 Venue: Annandale Galleries, 110 Trafalgar Street, Annandale, Sydney Charles Cooper
Cooper returns to Annandale Galleries for his third solo exhibition at the space, following the notable On Location show in 2022 Annandale Galleries – Charles Cooper.
Geographics 2025 is Cooper’s latest body of work explores the tension between urban order and natural entropy. His paintings turn the everyday cracks and repair lines of city roads into compelling studies of texture, colour, and abstraction. As curator Andrew Christie writes, Cooper “plants the seed of perception” — drawing viewers close to appreciate minute detail before inviting them to step back, revealing subtly modulated abstractions that pulse within everyday surfaces.
Born in Sydney in 1952, Cooper has built a distinguished career of solo and group exhibitions both nationally and internationally, while also teaching drawing at the National Art School Annandale GalleriesAnnandale GalleriesMutualArt.
Pictured: Steven Kramer (Writer of Phar Lap), Justin Smith (Cast of Phar Lap), Joel Granger (Cast of Phar Lap) and Sheridan Harbridge (Director of Phar Lap)
Together with various actors, writers, directors and costumers, I recently hosted a series of photo-shoots at my studio for the Hayes Theatre Company, in preparation for their 2026 season. The sessions involved still photographs of various cast members and video production of the actors and crew, filminging light-hearted, voice-to-camera interviews. We also created some grabs of slow-mo action for future marketing content.
Kayla French (marketing) commits herself to creating content with Joel Granger (Cast of Phar Lap)
Richard Carroll (Artistic Director) checks in with Billie and John (Cast Members)
Billie (Cast) in makeup with Ashleigh Grace (MUA)
Final social media images are captured before stepping on set.
Rica Canillas (Marketing, left) working hard with Kayla French (Marketing, right)
Sam Hernandez (Costuming, left), together with Richard (Director, right) adjust Billie’s costume
While the video cameras rolled, I also took the opportunity to capture some out-takes of the working process with my own camera. There was a vibrant and creative mood on set, with the team from Hayes Theatre Company bringing incredible energy to the studio. Moments like these are a powerful reminder of just how much collaborative effort goes into producing a theatrical season, with the contributions of so many talented individuals coming together behind the scenes.
Sam Hernandez (Wardrobe/Stylist) makes final adjustments to Billie Palin’s costume on set.
Pictured from left: Raphael Wong, Lincoln Elliott & Kala Gare
In June, I worked with the talented cast and crew of Being Alive, a beautifully staged selection of Stephen Sondheim songs at the Hayes Theatre in Sydney. My role was to capture production images to showcase the energy, emotion and artistry of the show with four extraordinary performers and a three-piece band, to be used for promotional and program purposes.
Normally, I photograph and document a full dress rehearsal by shooting continuously while the production runs in real time. This allows me to capture spontaneous moments and the natural rhythm of the performance. However, for Being Alive, the process was a little different – and all the more fascinating because of it.
This time, instead of shooting a seamless run-through, we worked through a carefully curated list of specific moments. Sonia Suares, the director, knew exactly the moments that would feature the artists appropriately and guided me along the way. The cast and crew would reset between these key points, allowing me to focus on capturing particular highlights that best represented the range and spirit of the show. We moved from set-up to set-up, working collaboratively to ensure that each image told a piece of the story.
Pictured from left: Lincoln Elliott, Kala Gare, Raphael Wong & Blazey Best
From my perspective, it was an interesting departure from my usual approach — offering the opportunity to craft images with more precision, while still responding to the vibrancy of live performance. I’m grateful to the team at Hayes for their openness and professionalism, and to the cast for their generosity in revisiting these moments so that I could do them justice through my lens.
Catch a performance in Sydney starting from late June … for tickets and more information head to“Being Alive”
Cast and crew of the Hayes Theatre production of “Being Alive”
The talented and much-loved performer Donna Campbell visited my Lilyfield studio in June to produce a fresh set of promotional images. Known for her dynamic stage presence and versatility, Donna required eye-catching imagery to support several of her upcoming projects – and she brought her signature professionalism and energy to our shoot.
From the moment Donna stepped in front of the lens, it was clear I was photographing someone who truly understands how to command the camera. We began with classic headshots, capturing her natural warmth and strength. As we progressed, the session evolved into more dynamic territory, with Donna striking expressive dance poses that reflected the vitality she brings to her performances.
To finish our photographic session, we had a lot of fun creating images of Donna in her “Dolly Parton” look – a lively character she often features in her shows, tracking her career “from rags to rhinestones”. She embodies Dolly’s sparkle and charm effortlessly, and the results speak for themselves. It was a privilege to help Donna create imagery to reflect her talents as a performer.
I had the pleasure of creating the poster art for Nothing Like A Dame, the latest show by Sydney drag icon Minnie Cooper, taking place at the legendary Stonewall Hotel on June 20th and 21st. The lead image featured in the poster is one I shot some time ago—so it’s a real joy to see it brought back and used to front this new production.
I’ve worked with Minnie for many years, capturing her in all her theatrical brilliance. With her rich background in the performing arts and sharp comedic flair, she’s a true force in the world of drag. Our creative collaborations reflect not just her talent, but also the enduring power and legacy of drag in Sydney’s LGBTQI+ history—particularly in venues like Stonewall, which have long been central to that vibrant cultural expression.
For tickets and more info, visit @theminniecooper on Instagram. This show promises sparkle, sass, and plenty of heart—you won’t want to miss it.
The acclaimed performer, Trevor Ashley, has returned to Australia from London to re-stage the popular parody he wrote together with Phil Scott, the adults-only “Moulin Scrooge”.
Moulin Scrooge is a bawdy, raucous cabaret riot. Apart from being absolutely fabulous (the costumes are wonderful, created by Angela White), one of its draw cards is the appearance of Carlotta on stage. This legendary burlesque performer, now in her 80’s, still holds her own. As one of the original “Les Girls”, Carlotta proudly owns the title of “Queen of the Cross”.
Carlotta in her dressing room before the performance
I photographed the dress rehearsal last week and I am sharing a few images from the show here (playing late March-early April at the Seymour Centre in Sydney). I suggest you book tickets now to experience this entertaining extravaganza for yourself. Here’s a link: Moulin Scrooge Tickets
Creative Team:
Writers Trevor Ashley and Phil Scott Director Trevor Ashley Assistant Director Shannon Dooley
Producer Trevor Ashley Cast Trevor Ashley, Carlotta Choreography Rhys Bobridge Costumes Angie White Lighting Design Sam Wylie
In February 2025, I had the privilege of capturing two distinct photographic sessions for the Hayes Theatre Co’s production of “The Pirates of Penzance” (playing in Sydney through March 16). The first was a studio-based shoot designed to produce new promotional images for the marketing campaign for this reimagined classic. The second involved taking swash-buckling production shots during the dress rehearsal, providing a special glimpse into the performance’s dynamic energy.
Directed by Richard Carroll, this adaptation of Gilbert and Sullivan’s operetta offers a fresh and inventive take on the original work. This production includes a standout performance by Brittanie Shipway in the twin roles of maid Ruth and love interest Mabel. Critics have praised the show for its modern twist and engaging performances. According to Broadway World, the production is “an inventive escapist expression of Gilbert & Sullivan’s comic opera.”
The promotional images I created aim to capture the vibrant and contemporary essence of this adaptation, highlighting the performers’ madcap expressions and the show’s lively atmosphere. We follow the dreamy and not-particularly-bright young Frederic (played with amusing earnestness by Maxwell Simon), a piano-playing Major-General (Trevor Jones), a pirate/policeman/maiden who also plays the keys (Billie Palin) and a ukulele-playing, quick-changing Pirate King and Police Chief (Jay Laga’aia), who sometimes wears a ridiculous, over-scaled leather pirate’s hat. The heightened silliness, adventurousness and comic musical timing is aided by the onstage stage manager (Sheridan Simson) who rings the ship’s bell and keeps the action moving briskly. I think that my images help to convey this production’s modern sensibility.
During the dress rehearsal, I focused on capturing candid moments to showcase the performers’ interactions and the intricate staging, plus some of the hilarious costuming and prop gags. The intimate setting of the Hayes Theatre Co allowed for close-up shots to emphasize the comedic timing integral to the performances.
With witty lyrics and new jokes, this collaboration with the Hayes Theatre Co has been a rewarding experience, allowing me to be part of the visual storytelling of a production that reimagines a beloved classic for a new generation.
Recent Reviews of ‘The Pirates of Penzance’ at Hayes Theatre Co
The Pirates of Penzance; or The Slave of Duty is playing at Hayes Theatre Co, Potts Point, until March 16. For information and to book tickets go to: The Hayes Theatre Co
It had been a while since Bob Downe graced my studio with his presence, but he has returned for an exhilarating update of his imagery. Thankfully, Mark Trevorrow was on hand to expertly navigate us through the nuances of a “Bob Shoot”.
Having had the privilege to photograph Bob for many years, it’s astonishing to realize that his career has spanned an impressive four decades. This year, 2025, marks Bob’s 40th anniversary in the entertainment industry. To countless fans and in my own eyes – being a visual person – Bob remains as ageless as ever. While the heavy “pancake” makeup and cheesy smile plays a role in his timeless appearance, I truly believe that his durability comes down to his commitment to clean living. And his crisp safari suits.
Working with Bob is a delight; he embodies professionalism. I can trust that I will capture a series of original shots without hassle, since Bob knows how to work a camera with ease. Beyond this talent, he’s genuinely a wonderful person to be around. His upbeat attitude, infectious laugh and zest for life will transform any photo shoot into a joyful experience.
Bob readies himself for the shoot
The ever watchful Mark Trevorrow adds last minute touches to Bob’s wig
As we celebrate Bob’s remarkable journey, I wish him a cheerful and successful 2025. I encourage everyone to book tickets for one of the venues where he will be performing this year, from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne to Perth, Newcastle and Brunswick Heads. Don’t miss out on the entertainment extravaganza that awaits! Information on performances can be found at this link: BobDowne40thAnniversary
Sharon Calabro is one of Australia’s finest and most respected singers and cabaret performers. Moreover, she is a wonderful human being who is both professional and loads of fun to work with
Sharon decided it was time to update her portfolio and promotional imagery. So we organised a studio shoot before Christmas, before the start of Sharon’s busy summer schedule.
Joining us at our photo-shoot was Alex Divanis , the talented make-up and hair artist, who has extensive experience in the industry. He has recently returned to Australia after living overseas.
For our shoot, Alex decided to style Sharon’s hair in a new manner. Normally Sharon sports a fringe but for these images, Alex flicked the hair back from her forehead. It worked really well and Sharon was super happy with the result.
It was a great moment for us to work together to create something special. I will share more of the final, retouched images in a future post. For now I’ve included a few unedited proofs as a teaser.
Janet Anderson on the red carpet for the CGA Awards Night, 2024
It was a Friday night at the ballroom of The Establishment and it was the awards night for the Casting Guild of Australia
What is the Casting Guild of Australia? Well in their own words….”The Casting Guild of Australia (CGA) was formed to bring recognition to Casting Directors across Australia who cast film, television, TV commercials, theatre, new media and reality. The CGA gives members a forum to share ideas and exchange information, provides unified standards for safe, inclusive and fair practices, engages in charitable activities, and highlights its members’ achievements.”
Each year, the Casting Guild of Australia (CGA) holds an awards ceremony to recognize outstanding individuals in various categories, akin to the Oscars for casting agents. This event is unique in the southern hemisphere, as it celebrates and acknowledges casting achievements across all mediums, including film, television, advertising, theatre, and online content.
Group image of some of the 10 young, up-and-coming, new talent.
On Friday night, attendees gathered in the ballroom to mingle and socialize, celebrating the achievements within the casting community. During the event, several awards were presented, and ten promising young talents were recognized as future stars likely to achieve national and international fame. The evening featured speeches and was expertly hosted by the erudite duo, Christian and Connor Van Vuuren.
Christian and Connor Van Vuuren, hosts for the CGA Awards night, 2024, on the red carpet.
There was also a special appearance and presentation by Sally Riley, the notable filmmaker, writer, producer, who was head of the indigenous branch of Screen Australia and then Head of the Indigenous Department at ABC, during which time she executive produced Mabo and Redfern Now. In 2015 she was appointed Head of Scripted Production at ABC, which commissioned series like Stateless, Mystery Road, Total Control, After Taste, Rosehaven, Wakefield, The Newsreader and many more. Sally is now Creative Consultant at SBS and NITV.
Sally Riley (filmmaker, writer, producer) during her presentation at the CGA Awards Night, 2024
It was a great night filled with good energy, and with the flash of the red carpet photography going non-stop as the award winners and guests were snapped in front of the media wall. Sending my congratulations to all the award winners.
The talented glass artist, Dagmar Ackerman is staging an exhibition at her Balmain studio complex. I often photograph Dagmar’s works for catalogue entries and promotion, so I am familiar with her seductive and colourful art works.
So head down to the artist studio complex, One plus 2 Artist Studios, and browse through Dagmar’s glass exhibition. The exhibtion extends across the weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) of the 22nd – 24th November, 2024.
Photo: Dagmar Ackerman during a recent photo session of her glass art works
On now at the Hayes Theatre, Sydney, Flat Earthers, a brand new musical that is not just a kaleidoscope of colour, but a wacky adventure into (cyber) space and time.
Production shots of the dress rehearsal are an important tool for promotional purposes for any show. They are also reproduced in the program that is sold on performance nights at the theatre, creating a valuable document of the cast, lighting and staging of any particular production. In the case of “Flat Earthers: The Musical”, due to difficulties with my scheduling for the dress rehearsal, I was actually photographing the first public performance. This meant I was limited in my movements, since I normally have the freedom to move throughout the auditorium when photographing a performance. As a photographer, you want to vary the angles and you constantly search for striking lighting effects. That said, you usually work more at the front/centre of the stage, because the show is constructed that way … you want to mirror the audience viewpoint.
Book & Lyrics Jean Tong & Lou Wall Songwriting Lou Wall & James Gales Music Production James Gales Director Declan Greene Musical Director Jude Perl Choreographer Fetu Taku Set & Lighting Designer Brockman Costume Designer Emma White Sound Designer, Associate Video Designer & Animator Daniel Herten AV Content Creator Xanthe Dobbie Stage Manager Anastasia Mowen Sound & AV Assistant TK Abioye Sound Operator Em-Jay Dwyer Intimacy Coordinator Chloë Dallimore Musical Dramaturg Clemence Williams Casting Director Rhys Velasquez Assistant Set Designer Lochie Odgers Assistant Stage Manager Grace Sackman With Michelle Brasier, Lena Cruz, Manali Datar, Milo Hartill, Manon Guderson-Briggs, Mel O’Brien, Shannen Alyce Quan, Zarif
Back in July, I hosted a photographic session at my Lilyfield studio for the different actors appearing in forthcoming productions for the Hayes Theatre in Sydney. We were shooting imagery for the promotion of the 2025 season.
Together we worked on images for a new production called “Pharlap”, an end-of-year special Xmas performance by Nancye Hayes in “Merry and Bright”, and finally the lead imagery for the production of “Pirates of Penzance”, set for February 2025
These are the latest additions to the impressive list of musicals and stage-plays performed as part of the Hayes Theatre’s busy program. Once they have been fully rehearsed, I will write more about these productions in this blog.
For more information on each show, as well as performance dates and times, click here:
This weekend, I will be exhibiting several of my photographs at the White Bay Power Station in Balmain (September 20, 21 & 22, 2024), as part of the Power Up Festival. Diverse Sydney artists are showing their recent work, along with a festival of music and food.
My photographic portraits of a solitary figure in a post-industrial space are being featured in a new installation flanked by abandoned machinery. It will be a great event with more that 250 artists and a line-up of artisans, food vendors and craft brewers. Wander through the Pump House and Boiler House to see the Power Up Stage ignite with live music and captivating performances. It is a wonderful opportunity to visit this iconic building near the Anzac Bridge. Oh … the best bit, it’s free!
It is always a pleasure to photograph Australian singer and performer Prinnie Stevens and the recent shoot at my studio was no exception.
We captured three different looks over the space of one morning. Prinnie required some updated imagery for promotional purposes. As is always the case, Prinnie presented herself with total professionalism, which makes my job as a photographer far less complicated.
We started with a relaxed image, for a more casual feel. Prinnie chose to have her hair out, the makeup was natural and simple. We shot the image on a strong, peeled-back, black background.
The next shot was more colourful. Prinnie was wearing a lilac knit jumper and I chose to light her differently, using a more high-key, shadowless, front light, together with a purple gel on the background to mirror the colour of her jumper. I also added a warmer side light to give this image extra highlights in her hair.
For the final look, I changed the lighting again. This time I wanted to reflect a more sophisticated look. Prinnie slicked back her hair and applied a tad more makeup, including a different lip colour. I chose a “butterfly”-type lighting approach, with a couple of side lights added for effect. I gelled the side lights with a quarter blue gel to give a bluer tone on the sides of her face.
I enjoyed meeting up with Prinnie and working with her again to create a series of new imagery. I believe she was happy with the results and I look forward to our next session.
