Adelaide audiences are invited to dust off their leg warmers and get ready for a sparkling night of fun as Xanadu, presented by Adelaide University, rolls into town.
Showing at Adelaide University’s Scott Theatre from Thursday 16 April to Sunday 19 April, the graduating cohort of Elder Conservatorium Music Theatre bring to town the high-energy Broadway hit glittering with comedy, roller-skating, disco-fuelled adventure.
Based on the cult classic 1980 film starring Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly, Xanadu follows the story of Kira, a Greek muse who descends from Mount Olympus to Venice Beach on a mission to inspire struggling artist Sonny Malone to create the ultimate roller disco. What follows is a laugh-out-loud tale of forbidden love, scheming sisters, and the magic of following your dreams.
Tony Award-nominated for Best Musical, Xanadu is directed and choreographed by multi award-winning choreographer Michael Ralph (Green Room awards for Outstanding Choreography for Tarzan, Elvis: A Musical Revolution, The Wedding Singer, Bring it On) with musical direction by Adelaide University lecturer Peter Johns.
“Xanadu is a show that radiates joy, entertains, and speaks truth to the artists’ journey, the human condition, and love,” said Ralph. “I think it’s the perfect time to be sharing Xanadu with Adelaide audiences because of the theatrical escapism this quirky fun and silly piece will give them. We need that more than ever right now.”
Packed with unforgettable music from the original hit score composed by pop-rock legends, Jeff Lynne and John Farrar, audiences can look forward to iconic hits including ’Magic’, ‘Suddenly’, ‘I’m Alive’, and the electrifying title track ‘Xanadu’.
Actor and third-year Bachelor of Music Theatre student Neve Sargeant, who plays Kira, said Xanadu is perfect for theatre lovers, 80s music fans, and anyone in need of a feel-good night out.
“This Adelaide production promises dazzling costumes, electrifying roller-skating, and a joyful celebration of the 80s pop era,” Sargeant said.
“Delivering hearty nostalgia and show-stopping choreography, Xanadu is a reminder that sometimes the greatest art comes from taking a chance and adding a little sparkle,” Ralph said.
“Experience the roller-disco phenomenon that took Broadway by storm.”
When: Thursday 16 April – Sunday 19 April 2026
Where: Scott Theatre, Kintore Avenue, North Terrace campus, Adelaide University
Find out more about the event on the Adelaide University website and book your tickets here.
Photo 1: Lorenzo Ravida as Thalia, Muse of Comedy, with Allycia Angeles as Erato, Muse of Erotic Poetry
Photo 2: Natalie Soares as Calliope, Muse of Epic Poetry
Media contacts:
Peter Johns, Production Manager, Elder Conservatorium Music Theatre, Adelaide University. Mobile: +61 408 286 894. Email: peter.johns@adelaide.edu.au
Lara Pacillo, Media Officer, Adelaide University. Mobile: +61 403 659 154. Email: lara.pacillo@adelaide.edu.au