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Rollicking musical with colourful glimpse at Sydney’s colonial era

A MUST for anybody wanting an entertaining dive into post-colonial Sydney history, The Millers Point Song Book, starring Canterbury’s Annerose De Jong, debuts on Friday and is a unique glimpse into the characters which have made the area so fascinating.

From the naming of the area in 1833, through management changes like the Sydney Harbour Trust and the Maritime Workers Board, to the exile of the Sirius Building inhabitants in 2022, this colourful new show honours past and current local heroes with a rollicking ride through song and story.
Characters include early surveyor Captain Grimes, poet Ernest Anthony, Women’s Christian Temperance Union Leader Mary Underwood, midwife Francis, early feminist Maybanke Anderson, Rocks action group president Nita McCrae, Jack Mundey, Anne Kirkman, said to be a ghost at the Hero of Waterloo built in 1843 … and even some merino sheep.
It’s being held in the historic Garrison Church, circa 1846, which Annerose describes as a “magnificent venue” with amazing acoustics and a rich heritage vibe.
“The show is for all ages and safe to say, the audience will get a history lesson on what is considered Sydney’s earliest white community where the first tents were pitched,” she said.
“The show has been so much fun to be a part of as there’s so much humour as well as poignant moments.
“Music is a great way to delve into the good and the bad, and this production presents 24 new fascinating songs by award-winning composer and lyricist Joanna Weinberg.
“It’s a show not to be missed.”
Catch The Millers Point Song Book at the Garrison Church, 60 Lower Fort Street, Millers Point, from this Friday, May 24, to Tuesday, May 28, from 7pm.
Tickets: $30-50 at humanitix.com.