Glam, Glitter, and Rock: Hedwig and the Angry Inch Dazzles on Opening Night at Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre
Melbourne’s iconic Athenaeum Theatre on Collins Street erupted in a riot of colour and sound last night, as the curtain rose on the highly anticipated opening of Hedwig and the Angry Inch. The cult classic musical, fresh from a triumphant run at the Adelaide Festival, has arrived for a strictly limited season as part of the RISING Festival, bringing its signature blend of glam-punk rock, humour, and heart to the city’s cultural heartland.
A Night of Stars and Spectacle
The red carpet was a spectacle in itself, with Lord Murray Schoorman of Peak Hour Images capturing every dazzling moment. Among the celebrities gracing the event were acclaimed performer Milo Hartill, theatre star Jesse Simpson, world famous producer and star of the stage Mitchell France, drag sensation Opal Essence and Melbourne’s musical maestro Will Conyers, each adding their own sparkle to the evening’s festivities.
They were joined by many red carpet regulars, including Allan Raskall (TV Presenter), Pettifleur Berenger (RHOM 2015) and Georgia Love (The Bachelorette Australia).
A Theatrical Landmark on a Storied Street
The Athenaeum Theatre, nestled on the prestigious Collins Street, is one of Melbourne’s oldest and most cherished performance venues. Since its establishment in 1839, the Athenaeum has hosted everything from vaudeville to grand musicals, standing as a testament to Melbourne’s enduring love affair with the arts.
Collins Street itself is steeped in history and prestige. Laid out in 1837 as part of Robert Hoddle’s original city grid, it quickly became Melbourne’s “Golden Mile”—a boulevard of financial power, artistic innovation, and high-end retail. Known for its Victorian architecture, luxury boutiques, and cultural institutions, Collins Street is often referred to as the “Paris End” of Melbourne, a nod to its European elegance and vibrant street life. The street has long been a magnet for Melbourne’s elite, making it the perfect backdrop for a show as bold and boundary-pushing as Hedwig and the Angry Inch.
A Show That Shines
On stage, Seann Miley Moore delivered a tour de force as Hedwig, earning standing ovations for a performance described as “lightning in a bottle” and “nothing short of astounding”. Backed by a blistering live band and a razor-sharp supporting cast, the production thrilled audiences with iconic songs like “The Origin of Love” and “Midnight Radio,” blending humour, heartbreak, and high-voltage rock in a night to remember.
A Celebration of Identity and Artistry
As the final chords rang out and the applause echoed through the Athenaeum’s historic halls, it was clear that Hedwig and the Angry Inch had not only lived up to its reputation but had carved a new chapter in Melbourne’s rich theatrical history. With its message of love, survival, and self-acceptance, the show is an unmissable event for anyone seeking the true spirit of Melbourne’s arts scene.
Hedwig and the Angry Inch runs at the Athenaeum Theatre until June 26. For those who crave a night of fearless theatre, Collins Street has never shone brighter.
