One of cinema’s most legendary stories is about to take Melbourne by storm—live on stage. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can a theatrical adaptation ever truly capture the magic of an iconic film? In 2026, Melbourne’s Malthouse Theatre will put that question to the test with its bold stage production of All About Eve, a story that has haunted and enthralled audiences for generations.
Originally a 1950 film starring the indomitable Bette Davis, All About Eve is a razor-sharp exploration of ambition, betrayal, and the ruthless world of show business. The story follows Margo Channing, a seasoned Broadway star whose career and confidence are shaken by the arrival of Eve Harrington, a seemingly innocent but cunning young admirer with her own ruthless agenda. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about rivalry; it’s about the price of success in an industry that discards women as they age.
Now, under the visionary direction of Dean Bryant—who recently stepped into the role of co-CEO and artistic director at Malthouse—this cinematic masterpiece will get a fresh theatrical interpretation. Starring the phenomenal Christie Whelan Browne in the dual roles of Margo and Eve, the production promises to be a tour de force. (Could one actor truly embody both characters convincingly? We’re about to find out.)
Bryant, a powerhouse in Australian theatre, has long been obsessed with bringing All About Eve to the stage. "It’s wicked, hilarious, and packed with some of the juiciest roles an actor could ask for," he says. "But more than that, it’s the ultimate story about ambition—how it drives us, destroys us, and everything in between. And let’s be honest, the dialogue is just *chef’s kiss."*
For Bryant, this project is both a professional milestone and a personal challenge. "Directing this as my first production in this new role? Terrifying. Exhilarating. Christie and I have pushed boundaries before, but this? This is next-level." The decision to have Whelan Browne play both leading women—often sharing scenes with herself—raises fascinating questions about duality, identity, and performance. Is it a stroke of genius or an impossible task? (We’re leaning toward genius.)
Bryant’s journey to this moment is its own compelling story. A law school dropout turned theatre luminary, he cut his teeth at WAAPA before making waves with hits like Dear Evan Hansen and the award-winning Candide. Alongside his life and creative partner, composer Mathew Frank, Bryant has cemented his reputation for bold, emotionally charged storytelling.
But the All About Eve adaptation is just one highlight of Malthouse’s 2026 season, which Vivia Hickman (executive producer and co-CEO) describes as "a celebration of ambition, creativity, and the sheer diversity of today’s artists." The lineup includes six new Australian works, five world premieres, and boundary-pushing productions like Break of Day (starring Kat Stewart) and Stephanie Lake’s avant-garde dance piece Vista.
So, can theatre change the world? Bryant is refreshingly realistic: "Maybe not. But it can create a moment—a shared experience that lingers in your soul long after the curtain falls."
Now, over to you: Do you think stage adaptations of classic films ever live up to the originals? Or are they destined to live in their shadows? Drop your hot takes in the comments—let’s debate!
