The ABC and Screen Australia will fund documentary Making Muriel, following P.J. Hogan as he adapts his 1994 film Muriel’s Wedding into a musical produced by the Sydney Theatre Company and Global Creatures (Strictly Ballroom The Musical).
Directed by Nel Minchin (Matilda and Me), produced by Minchin and Ivan O’Mahoney (Hitting Home, Caged), and executive produced by Nial Fulton (Hitting Home, Matilda and Me) from In Films, Making Muriel will take viewers all the way to the musical's world premiere at Sydney's Roslyn Packer Theatre in November 2017.
The rehearsal process will be weaved together with archival footage and interviews with Hogan, the film’s producers Jocelyn Moorhouse (The Dressmaker) and Lynda House, as well as the musical's cast.
“We are following up Nel Minchin’s wonderful documentary debut, Matilda and Me, with another musical theatre documentary about the making of a musical based on the hit film, Muriel’s Wedding,” said Mandy Chang, Head of ABC Arts.
“Nel and In Films have amazing access to the behind-the-scenes casting and rehearsals process and already the story promises to make exciting viewing, not only for audiences who grew up loving Muriel’s Wedding but for anyone who enjoys watching the creative process unfold.”
Hogan has penned the script for the musical, with original music and lyrics from Kate Miller-Heidke and Keir Nuttal alongside the classic ABBA songs that feature prominently in the film.
Making Muriel will be broadcast on the ABC later this year.