Julie Andrews returns to My Fair Lady—this time as director—for its 70th-anniversary revival at the Sydney Opera House. Discover what makes this production a must-watch for musical theatre fans.
A Notable Return to the Stage
In 2026, the world is in for a rare treat with a 70th-anniversary production of the great musical My Fair Lady, directed by Dame Julie Andrews. The production will take place, as it did the first time My Fair Lady was performed in Australia in 1959, at the Sydney Opera House.
Not just a re-staging, this is a lovely historical and personal remembrance — a combination of nostalgia, artistry, and storytelling. While fans around the world — especially in the U.S. — are looking on with new admiration as Julie Andrews, who played Eliza Doolittle on Broadway in 1956, steps back into the director’s chair.
Julie Andrews: The Heart and Soul Behind the Blue Book
In My Fair Lady, Julie Andrews is not only directing — she is also stepping back to a chapter of her legacy. For those who don’t know, Andrews was only 20 years old when she first performed as Eliza Doolittle, starring opposite Rex Harrison, on Broadway. Her voice, carriage, and perfect delivery took the show from Broadway to worldwide success.
In 2016, Andrews directed the 60th-anniversary production at the Sydney Opera House, featuring sold-out shows and multiple standing ovations each night. Now, ten years later, she returns again, along with co-director Karen Johnson Mortimer, to offer a fresh take on the production for a new generation of audiences.
Why This Renewal is Important: Legacy; Culture; Timelessness
The renewal of My Fair Lady for its 70th anniversary is not simply about celebrating its history — it is about making it new again.
A Cultural Objective
Every musical is a piece of culture. This musical, based on George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion, addresses issues of classism, identity, transformation, and gender roles. The musical features iconic songs:
“Wouldn’t It Be Loverly?”
“I Could Have Danced All Night”
“The Rain in Spain”.
It is still among the most beloved works in musical theatre.
From Broadway to Sydney — A Full-Circle Experience
So, why Sydney? Because Australia has a special connection to the musical. The very first production of My Fair Lady in Australia was presented at the Opera House in the mid-20th century and introduced with Broadway-style experience to the country. In its 70th anniversary, reviving the show in the same venue symbolizes a homage and a statement of sorts that these classics remain compelling.
A Creative Vision: Reviving a Classic
Julie Andrews wants to keep the integrity of the original show while making small changes in staging, costumes, and characterization relevant to today’s audiences.
What’s New in the 2026 Production?
A contemporary perspective on the character of Eliza and how she is presented, with an emphasis on her journey as an empowered woman and finding her voice, and not so much as an agent of transformation.
Updated choreography, by a Tony Award-winning choreographer, that combines old and new.
Updated visuals, including light and stage design, in keeping with the 21st-century aesthetic.
Julie Andrews + Karen Johnson Mortimer = The Power
Mortimer brings years of theatre experience, with a unique perspective as a fresh director, which makes this a co-production that is both reverent and restorative.
The generational influence of Julie Andrews on the theatre-going public
Few people have impacted musical theatre more than Julie Andrews. From The Sound of Music to Mary Poppins, celebrating her art and presence has defined the meaning of excellence, charm, and emotion. Julie Andrews is the same director now as her extraordinary performances of the past have conquered her work.
World Anticipation: Why US audiences should take note.
Although the 2026 revival is in Sydney, the excitement has spread to the US. Following every bit of news are Broadway followers, theater students, and fans of the classic film, with hopes that the show will tour or stream somewhere in the world as it did in previous times.
Some Reasons to Be on Lookout for the Revival
Rare Julie Andrews-directed event, and she is one of the few remaining living legends.
Classic narrative is acceptable today.
Potential US national tour or Broadway transfer. Several previous productions have made the jump to US stages.
Expecting critical acclaim. If the 2016 revival received critical acclaim, it could ultimately push the envelope even more this time.
Some Fun Facts: My Fair Lady by the Numbers
Fact Statistic
Broadway Debut March 15, 1956
Original Eliza Doolittle Julie Andrews
Tony Awards Won 6
Longest Broadway Run (1950s) 2,717 performances
First Australian Production 1959, Sydney Opera House
Global Box Office (all revivals) $500M+
How to Experience This Revival Like a True Theatre Buff
Whether you’re keen on experiencing Sydney or just want to have the experience, here are ways to experience the occasion.
1. Plan a Theatre vacation
Sydney will be a mecca of musical theatre for fans in 2026. Book your travel and show tickets early.
2. Revisit the Original Cast Album
There are several streaming sites that contain the full Broadway soundtrack with Andrews’ vocals – a perfect preamble.
3. Participate in Theatre Groups on Social Media
Follow fan groups, Reddit discussions, and official social media to post stuff and access behind-the-scenes video.
4. Watch for Virtual Screenings
Like the National Theatre Live program, it may be possible to access global streaming of this revival.
An Event for the Ages
Julie Andrews’s return to My Fair Lady, as a director, is not just a revival, but a historic moment in theatre. If you have been a long-time fan or a newcomer exploring the timeless age-old story, the 70th-anniversary production will be one to remember.
FAQs
1. Why is Julie Andrews directing the 70th anniversary production?
Julie Andrews was the original Eliza on Broadway in 1956. This revival will allow her to return to the story in a more important capacity and be a part of the legacy for a story that has withstood the test of time.
2. Where is the revival, and when is it?
It will take place in 2026 at the Sydney Opera House in Australia — the same theatre that inaugurated My Fair Lady in this country back in 1959.
3. Will the revival come to Broadway or the U.S.?
Although it is not officially confirmed, past revivals have toured internationally. There is strong speculation for a Broadway run, or at least to have it streamed around the world.