A guitar-playing koala and a ballet-dancing emu are set to take the stage in Outback Jams!, a brand-new Australian musical making its Melbourne premiere at this year’s Fringe Festival.
The story follows Koko the guitar-playing koala, who crosses paths with Emu, a ballet dancer, in the middle of the bush. After discovering each other’s unusual talents, they form a bold plan to become Australia’s next big double act.
The pair set off for Platypus Point, where a talent competition promises stardom, but the journey isn’t without obstacles. With support from a cast of quirky characters, Koko and Emu learn the value of teamwork, resilience, and joy in self-expression.
“I created this show to remind kids that being different is something to celebrate. Your hobbies don’t have to earn you trophies or tick boxes, they can just be about having fun. The best part of expressing yourself is that there are no rules,” said writer and director Tess Branchflower.
At its heart, Outback Jams! is a celebration of individuality. It shares an important message for young audiences – that it’s okay not to be the best, or to chase traditional ideas of success. Instead, joy can be found in creativity, self-expression, and connection. Koko and Emu emerge as role models for kids who feel a little different, showing that differences can be strengths.
With music, dance, comedy, and a uniquely Australian setting, Outback Jams! promises a fun, heartwarming outing for the whole family.
Outback Jams is on at The MC Showroom, Level 1, 50 Clifton Street Prahran from 30 September to 5 October at 11am daily ,with an Auslan interpreted session on 2 October. More information and tickets available here.
