The Rise and Disguise of Elizabeth R

Gerry Connolly is a familiar and much-loved face in Australia. A versatile actor, comic and musician, we have watched him in classics Fast Forward and Joh’s Jury and on stage in Urinetown and Nick Enright’s Summer Rain, in opera, with symphony orchestras and the regal opening of an envelope. Perhaps his most enduring performance has been his inhabitation of Queen Elizabeth II. Over four decades, his loving (and uncanny) representation of her, full of dry wit and surprising ingenuity, has become an Australian icon.

This brand new story brings to life many of Gerry’s brilliant alter-egos, from Her Maj, her son, her bête noir the Baroness Thatcher, her Australian PMs to other famous home-grown personalities… As the Queen nears the end of her reign, this show explores her history, her hidden personality, and the weird sense of intimacy that has developed for Gerry over decades of walking in the shoes of The Monarch.

Directed by Hayes favourite Shaun Rennie (Only Heaven Knows, The View UpStairs) and supported by a cast of talented comic triple threats, Gerry will push boundaries, as always, in this outing, full of pathos, humour and magic. Expect the unexpected in a show that delivers what the Royal Family isn’t known for: gags, show tunes, and dancing.

Gus Murray of Sugary Rum Productions says, "Gerry's QE2 is an Australian icon and we’re thrilled to bring this hilarious new show to Sydney’s home of musical theatre. This is a top-notch team of theatre-makers bringing to life a show that will constantly keep you guessing."