1969. The Vietnam War. Bombs are dropping and the world is exploding in protest. Back at the Tiki Club in St Kilda, four sisters from country Victoria – Gail, Kay, Cynthia and Julie – catch the eye of a big-city talent scout with their Supremes cover act.

But for the MacCrae girls, the realisation of a lifelong dream to perform overseas isn’t quite what they had in mind.

Based on the incredible true story of writer Tony Briggs’ mother, The Sapphires chronicles how these fierce and fabulous Yorta Yorta women blazed a trail from their small town roots to the frontlines of Vietnam, belting out Motown hits for the American soldiers and breaking through barriers with every beat.

For over 25 years, this multi-award-winning play and the hit film it inspired have captivated audiences across the world. Now Queensland Theatre and Canberra Theatre Centre join forces to raise the roof in The Playhouse with a sparkling new production of The Sapphires featuring the next generation of First Nation superstars led by original director and theatre legend, Wesley Enoch.

Packed with heart, clad in sequins and boasting a swinging soundtrack that defined a generation, this story about a band of women — daring to go where others refused — is a powerful cultural anthem to the solidarity and soul of First Nations’ sisterhood.

Wednesday 3rd June 2026

The Playhouse, Canberra Theatre
$150 pp

• Full amount payable within 7 days of booking.
• Depart Snowliner Coaches Depot on Polo Flat Road at 5.30pm,
• returning home approximately midnight
• Cars may be left at the depot for the evening.