THE LORD OF THE RINGS - a MUSICAL tale MELBOURNE PREMIERE NIGHT
I’ll admit it… I’ve never seen a single Lord of the Rings movie. Not one. No extended editions, no trilogies, not even a Gollum meme deep dive. So walking into the Melbourne premiere of the new Lord of the Rings musical, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Would I be completely lost? Would the story be too dense? Would die hard fans be able to sense I was a total outsider?
Turns out, none of that mattered. Because from the moment we arrived, it was clear that this was more than a niche fantasy event this was theatre on a grand scale, and everyone was welcome.
THE BUILD-UP
The Comedy Theatre was buzzing long before the curtain went up. Outside, it felt more like a film premiere than a stage show red carpet rolled out, cameras flashing, entertainment reporters darting between interviews, influencers posing with pointed ears and dramatic cloaks. There was a real sense of occasion, and the energy was contagious.
Inside the crowd, fans turned up in full Middle earth mode. We’re talking elves with flowing robes, hobbits with hairy feet, wizards carrying staffs and a general sense of playful dedication that only comes from people who really love the source material.
And yet, as someone brand new to the story, I never once felt out of place. In fact, the enthusiasm made it feel even more inviting like I was stepping into a long-running tradition, and getting to join in for the first time.
THE SHOW
When the lights dimmed and the opening notes rang out, the room shifted. Suddenly, we were on a journey and the production made sure we didn’t just watch it happen, we felt it.
Despite not knowing the lore, I never felt lost. The narrative was clear, the stakes easy to grasp, and the characters grounded enough that even fantasy newcomers could latch onto their emotions. The story had weight, but it was also surprisingly funny especially the hobbits, who brought an unexpected lightness and warmth.
Visually, the show was stunning. Massive trees rose up from the stage. Fire flickered across dramatic battle scenes. Fog crept in at just the right moments. The staging wasn’t just clever it was immersive. It felt like we were walking alongside Frodo and Sam, ducking danger, meeting magical beings, and moving toward something much bigger than ourselves.
The cast delivered across the board, with standout performances from the actor playing Frodo, who gave the role real vulnerability, and Gollum a show stealer in every scene. Equal parts eerie and captivating, he brought real tension and unpredictability. The music soared, swelling in emotional moments and charging forward during action scenes. At one point I had tears in my eyes. A few minutes later, I was laughing out loud. That’s good theatre
THE AFTERGLOW
As the cast took their final bows (to a well-deserved standing ovation), it was clear the audience had been right there the whole way. On the way out, people were buzzing quoting favourite lines, comparing the show to the films, swapping theories, ranking songs.
For me, the most surprising part of the night wasn’t just that I enjoyed the show it’s that I felt connected to it. To the characters, to the world, and to the crowd of strangers around me who all shared in something magical for a few hours. You don’t need to know the difference between Mordor and Rivendell to feel that.
FINAL THOUGHTS
If you're already a Lord of the Rings fan, this production is obviously a must. But if you're like me curious, but unsure it’s a fantastic entry point. It’s rich with heart, full of spectacle, and beautifully staged. And above all, it knows how to tell a good story in a way that feels big, human, and accessible.
The Lord of the Rings musical is now playing at the Comedy Theatre in Melbourne. Whether you’re in it for the nostalgia, the drama, or just a great night out you won’t regret it.
Grab a drink, bring a friend (or a Frodo), and get ready for a journey that’s bold, emotional, and a little bit magical. Middle earth is calling and Melbourne answered.
Get your tickets HERE
Rhemy xx
