A Migrant's Son
World Premier for Adelaide Cabaret Festival 2018 - Adelaide Festival Centre
Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2022 -
Produced by House of Oz
A Migrant's Son is a true story exploring migration from Greece to Australia during the 1930’s. This extraordinary work conveys incredible historical events that are brought to life through original songs accompanied by a live band and community chorus, creating a beautifully presented and touching account that is melodious, hilarious and heart-warming.
Written and performed by award winning cabaret star Michaela Burger (Exposing Edith, Simply Brill). This is a tale about the son of a poor migrant, who defied all odds to rise above adversity. His unrelenting determination to build a successful life is comical, dramatic and relatable.
Spanning nearly 90 years and featuring traditional Greek instruments and costumes, audiences are presented with nostalgic anecdotes and a cheeky recount of one family’s experience. Featuring foot-tapping melodies and electrifying vocals, this musical rouses tremendous community spirit and explores the highs and lows of migration and being ‘Australian’.
A true-life musical tribute to the heart and hilarity of Australia’s migrant stories; this is a story that millions of Australians can relate to.
Premiering to a sell-out Adelaide Cabaret Festival season, nominated for a Helpmann Academy Award and winner of the inaugural Frank Ford Award at Adelaide Fringe.
MORE reviews
“A far-reaching generational story that crosses divides, ignites memories and pulls at your heart-strings...”
"[In] her strikingly original show [Burger] stakes a credible claim to be one of Australia’s leading voices not only in cabaret, but much further afield."
‘Her song-writing and compositions are a testament to artistry’
“Michaela not only spellbinds her audience with her vocals, but also her theatrical abilities”
"What makes this show special…Burger has written the songs which she sings with such clarity and feeling that you know they come from the heart. It is the story that millions of Australians could relate [to]"
"An exquisitely created production…some of the vocal gymnastics performed on the night were simply mind-blowing"
"A perfect cabaret show - emotionally powered narrative…one the most passionate and heartfelt I’ve seen in any cabaret show"
“Achingly beautiful”
Original music and story by Michaela Burger
Music arranged and produced by Dave Higgins
Musical direction by Carol Young
Directed by Jane Packham
Song development mentoring by Jethro Woodward
Dramaturge Sally Hardy
Image: Claudio Raschella
