Slicing across the Theatre Works stage in the heat of Melbourne tennis-mania, this Midsumma Festival don’t miss the chance to catch Australian Open, Angus Cameron’s wickedly funny play about elite tennis, family, and open relationships.
It’s Felix’s 31st Birthday, but all his parents want to talk about over dinner is his boyfriend Lucas’ loss to Rodger Federer in last week’s grand slam. That is until Felix mentions that he and Lucas plan to continue their open relationship even if they decide to get married – a backhand smash that kicks off a debauched game of doubles.
Brought to the stage by an exceptional team of actors and creatives, Australian Open dives headfirst into the chaos of competition, and the messiness of human connection. Expect volleys of biting wit, dazzling performances and plenty of sweat-soaked drama – all played out under the glare of the world’s brightest spotlight.
“When Angus Cameron first shared this script, it hit that magic combination of being sharp, sexy, smart, and emotionally loaded,” said Theatre Works Executive Director, Dianne Toulson.
“It felt like such a natural fit for our Midsumma program; the tension of elite sport, the messiness of desire, and this delicious queer heat running through it. And then, knowing Riley Spadaro had directed it previously in Sydney and was keen to revisit it with a fresh perspective – that sealed it.”
“You feel touches of sports documentaries like Break Point, the tension and wit of a show like Succession, and the sweaty Australian summer energy of the real Australian Open. It felt like the perfect moment for Theatre Works to bring it into the heart of Melbourne’s queer festival season.”
Directed by Riley Spadaro, Australian Open features lauded actors Jane Montgomery Griffiths, Eddie Orton, Sebastian Li, Alec Gilbert and Melissa Kahraman – with Green Room Award winner/nominated creatives Sidney Younger (lighting), Jack Burmeister (sound designer & composer) and Harry Gill (set & costume designer). Stage management is by Clara Camm.
Playing as part of the By Theatre Works programming stream during the Midsumma Festival, don’t miss a unique opportunity to experience the highly anticipated return season of this engrossing Australian work.
Australian Open
Theatre Works, 14 Acland Street, St Kilda
Season: 22 – 31 January 2026 (preview: 21 January)
Information and Bookings: www.theatreworks.org.au
Image: Sebastian Li and Eddie Orton – photo by Tom Noble