New Musical THE LAST TORCH to Premiere at Melbourne Fringe Festival

The Last Torch, a new Australian musical, will launch its premiere season on October 1st at The Coopers Malthouse, as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival.

Set in 1588, the show offers a new perspective on the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. It will pay homage to the fallen Irish who fought for their independence through the journey of the last Clan leader, Brian O'Rourke.

"The Last Torch tells of the love of the Irish for their culture, the love for their children and their love for each other. It is romance and passion in the midst of conflict" says composer, Frances O'Neill.

Written by husband and wife duo, Frances and Simon O'Neill, The Last Torch explores their Irish heritage, "In the pages of Irish history our families fought together and now we are united again in telling this important story" says musical director, Simon O'Neill.

Fresh from the West End is actor Tim Carney, who will lead a cast of 19 performers. While a 13 piece orchestra will bring to life the traditional Irish and Spanish music featured in The Last Torch.

"A new musical is a huge creative process and it's brilliant to see an Australian musical hit the Melbourne stage" says Tim Carney, actor.

New works have long been the backbone of the Melbourne arts scene. Seven years in the making, The Last Torch promises to deliver a night rich in Irish passion. The season will run from October 1-4 at The Beckett theatre, the Malthouse.

Australia - Melbourne Awards - Live Stats

Best Musical - Top 3

1. BEETLEJUICE THE MUSICAL (Regent Theatre, Melbourne)

53.7% of votes

2. TWELFTH NIGHT (St Kilda Botanical Gardens)

18.5% of votes

3. MJ THE MUSICAL (Her Majesty's Theatre)

16% of votes

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