Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised this review contains the name of a deceased Indigenous person.

The Sapphires presented by Queensland Theatre Company was undeniably one of the best musical theatre performances I have seen in a very long time. Audience members will be tapping their toes long after they leave the theatre and will certainly feel like they got their money’s worth from the ticket purchase, especially if they brought a group of friends for a night out. The performance goers were frocked up for an evening of musical entertainment with the soul sisters - who other than The Sapphires themselves? Many of the ladies in the room seemed to be working to a theme of blue evening gowns and sequins, perfectly in line with the costume design worn by the main cast members who appear on the front cover of the program.

The Billie Brown Theatre utilises minimal stage space, props, and cast members, yet transforms an intimate venue into a living, breathing environment. The production brings the pages of the script to life and gives room for the talent to shine not only with their acting ability but with their vocal chops as well. The simplicity of the staging allows the performers to take centre stage, and the result is a show that feels both personal and powerful.The Sapphires was first produced by Melbourne Theatre Company in 2004, and now the performance has come full circle two decades later with a modernised look and feel ready to captivate Brisbane audiences. This season also celebrates the leading ladies who brought the story we all know and love to life. The production was dedicated to Dr Naomi Mayers OAM, commonly known as Aunty Nay, an original member of The Sapphires. The dedication marks a moment in time to honour her legacy and the path she paved for generations to come. Her presence is felt throughout the performance, adding emotional depth and cultural significance to the show.

Written by Tony Briggs and directed by Wesley Enoch, The Sapphires had very capable hands at the helm of the production. The main cast expertly balanced the performing aspects of their roles with the vocal prowess required to bring Cynthia, Kay, Gail and Julie to life. Ruby Henaway, Aurora Liddle‑Christie, Tehya Makani and Taeg Twist respectively delivered performances that were heartfelt, humorous, and full of soul. Their chemistry on stage made the audience feel as though they were witnessing the real journey of four young women finding their voices and their place in the world.

The supporting cast members also deserve a special mention as they portrayed each character with humility and heart. The roles of Dave Lovelace, Robby, Jimmy and Joe - played by Jack Bannister, Cameron Leonard, Garret Lyon and Chris Nguyen - added warmth, humour, and grounding to the story. Every cast member contributed, whether in a big or small way, to the performance and delivered their role with expertise. Similar to a tightly tuned piano, it felt as though each note was being hit with purpose and clarity.

While the feature film released in 2012 is potentially how many viewers first became familiar with the story, the live stage production at Billie Brown Theatre offers something uniquely intimate. Audiences are in for a real treat as they get an up‑close and personal view of the trials and tribulations of Cynthia, Kay, Gail and Julie on their journey to becoming the soul sisters who paved the way forward for women of colour during uncertain times.

Do not miss the opportunity to see this Queensland Theatre Company production that has captured hearts and minds. You will fall in love with our ladies once again as you see the story unfold in a brand‑new light and witness the lasting significance they have on culture, community, and paving the way for the next generation to carry their story and culture with them.

Words By Joanna Letic

Imagery By David Kelly