Local musical takes flight

A young sugar glider searching for her way home is taking centre stage in an original Australian musical created by two City of Moreton Bay creatives.

Five years in the making, When the Wind Blew will bring 38 performers and a 13-piece live orchestra to Redcliffe Entertainment Centre from December 18-20.

Created by Paula-Mary Camilleri and Eli J Ball, the musical follows Hazel, a young sugar glider whose fear of taking her first glide is put to the test when a powerful storm separates her from her family.

Her journey through the Australian bush introduces her to an unlikely group of companions, including an echidna, koala, spider and wise wallaby, as they navigate danger, friendship and the challenges of finding their way home.

While the colourful animal characters and Australian setting are designed to appeal to younger audiences, the story also explores grief, change, resilience and belonging.

Director and co-writer Paula-Mary says the production is intended to offer something for all ages.

“It's not a children's show,” she says. “It's a show for everyone, including children. It is two hours long – the length of a regular Broadway musical. Think Australian Lion King vibes.”

The idea grew from Paula-Mary and Eli's desire to create an original musical celebrating Australia's distinctive wildlife and landscapes, while telling a story with themes that would resonate with adults as well as children.

First staged in 2025, When the Wind Blew returns this December in a reimagined production, with further development of the story and its theatrical presentation.

Eli, a recent graduate of the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music, has helped shape the show's original score and will conduct the 13-piece orchestra.

The production also showcases local creative talent behind the scenes, with textile artist Shan Michaels joining returning costume designers Sarah Hunt, Viv Moss and Lauren Dymond to bring the animal characters and Australian bush setting to life.

Supported by City of Moreton Bay Council through the Regional Arts Development Fund Creative City Grant scheme, the musical will be performed at Redcliffe Entertainment Centre on Friday, December 18 at 7pm, Saturday, December 19 at 2pm and 7pm, and Sunday, December 20 at 2pm.

For tickets and more information, visit the Redcliffe Entertainment Centre website.