After an extraordinary season in Melbourne last year at Chapel Off Chapel, Driftwood The Musical is now being reworked by director and acclaimed theatre-maker Gary Abrahams along with Anthony Barnhill and Jane Bodie for its Sydney run.

This moving and enthralling story of a family surviving the ravages of war is coming to Glen Street Theatre, 24 – 28 May.

Following the sold-out world premiere Melbourne season in 2022, the Producers of Driftwood The Musical have announced the production will head to New York later this year to explore its potential in the heartland of musical theatre.

Driftwood The Musical tells the inspirational story of the renowned Austrian-Australian sculptor, Karl Duldig and his artist-inventor wife, Slawa Horowitz-Duldig. We follow their lives in pre-war Vienna, the family’s narrow escape from Nazi Austria, Slawa’s ingenious invention of the foldable umbrella, and the incredible chain of events that took place after miraculously escaping the Holocaust and rebuilding their careers as artists in Melbourne.

This epic story covers three continents and three generations and has been adapted for the stage by award-winning playwright Jane Bodie, based on the original memoir by Eva de Jong-Duldig. It features original music, lyrics and arrangements by Anthony Barnhill with lyrics by Tania de Jong AM and Jane Bodie.

“It is so timely, that it’s both poetical and painful. The stagecraft is mesmerising. The music is sublime. The acting and singing are superlative. This story and stunningly crafted musical deserves to tour the world as a beacon of hope, and a reminder to avoid history repeating itself.”
– Australian Stage

“Driftwood comes together with so much talent and commitment. The singing is excellent. Based on a true story, this show has heart.”
– The Age

For booking details: Visit glenstreet.com.au or call 9470 5913

Notes for Editors

  • Starring Tania de Jong AM, Anton Berezin, Bridget Costello, Michaela Burger and Nelson Gardner
  • Directed by award-winning director, Gary Abrahams
  • Based on the memoir of Tania de Jong’s mother, Eva de Jong-Duldig
  • Tania de Jong AM is available for media interviews
  • Driftwood The Musical will open at Glen Street Theatre on Wednesday 24th May, 8pm and will run until Sunday 28th May
  • Tickets on sale now

Production and hero images for media use: http://bit.ly/3JziYtd

Show trailer link: https://bit.ly/3TuHBM4

MEDIA: If you would like an interview, additional information or images please contact:
Georgia Slater, Marketing, Georgia.slater@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
Ph: (02) 8495 5558