Mikelangelo in the Belly of the Whale at Riverside Live at PHIVE

'In the Belly of the Whale' is a new solo show by acclaimed Croatian-Australian singer, songwriter and performer Michael Simic. In this rollicking and revealing tale, Simic’s own story as a new dad juggling home life with life on the road intertwines with the mythic ocean adventures of his charming alter ego, Mikelangelo. Shipwrecked and swallowed by a giant sperm whale, the two meet in its belly and must find a way to escape.

Combining songs, storytelling, comedy, and physical theatre, 'In the Belly of the Whale' is vibrant, tender and incredibly entertaining. This deeply personal work shines a light on what it means to be a father, a son, a husband, and an artist.

Simic is best known as the frontman of his long-term group Mikelangelo and the Black Sea Gentlemen, and for his role in the Olivier-award winning international hit La Clique. He has sold out headline shows from the Sydney Opera House to London’s West End, garnering accolades and a dedicated following for his highly original work.

'In the Belly of the Whale' was created in collaboration with writer/director Tracy Bourne, who has worked extensively in music and theatre in Australia, including productions with Chamber Made Opera, Melbourne International Festival and the ABC.

This production has been supported by the Canberra Theatre Centre and the Australian Wooden Boat Festival, where the show debuted in February 2025. Co-created by Michael Simic and Tracy Bourne.