Athenaeum Theatre

The AFL has been in existence since 1896, yet there’s long been an elephant in the room (or should we say, league?). While rumours have come and gone, the mens division of the Australian Football League has never had an openly gay player. As the years march on, it’s a fact that becomes more and more noteworthy. One Day in September is a new Australian musical that tackles this very issue by simply asking what if? And given the pressure cooker environment of professional football, what obstacles would a player face if they did decide to come out? The musical, which we’re told has been five years in the making, traces the fictional story of a player coming to grips with his public and private lives. We’re promised a story of self-discovery and sacrifice that asks whether it’s really possible to have it all in today’s society.  You can catch this Perryman Theatre Company production at the Athenaeum’s smaller space, Athenaeum Two, from November 28-30. The cast reads like a list of the next generation of Aussie musical theatre stars, including Keanu Gonzalez (Grease), Ashleigh Rubenach (Sunset Boulevard), Lorinda May Merrypor (& Juliet), Des Flanagan (Moulin Rouge! The Musical) and Yashith Fernando (& Juliet).  With only four shows scheduled, we highly recommend booking early to secure your chance to see this daring new work. Calendar looking empty? Here's the best theatre and musicals happening in Melbourne this month.

Experience an evening of allure, pure extravagance and exciting dance numbers at Shimmery Couture’s production of Shimmery Burlesque. Showing to audiences for just one weekend at the end of November, the intricate show has been developing in production for more than half a dozen years. According to the team at Shimmery, the show includes thousands of shining rhinestones, more than a hundred costumes and fun Burlesque routines brought to life by a chorus of fabulous performers – all in the one place. The production follows the life of Lady Shimmery, a chic Parisian who is inspired by the city of love and entranced by the art of burlesque. As a costume maker by trade, Lady Shimmery designs and creates intricate pieces for the Cabaret from her glittering work room. Let the story guide you through sparkling dressing rooms, romantic sewing stations reminiscent of traditional Parisian design and finally into a glorious French garden scene complete with park benches, fountains and artists. Indulge in a showstopping night of entertainment at one of Shimmery Couture’s four  Melbourne shows. Reserve tickets at the official site before they sell out. Can't wait? Here are the best shows and musicals happening in Melbourne this month.