This May, the wildly original Murder Horse: The Musical storms onto Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre stage as part of the Local Stages program, premiering in a strictly limited season from 7–9 May 2026.
Described as “Sweeney Todd meets Succession,” this gothic comedy-horror musical is a bold, biting, and gloriously unhinged theatrical experience that takes aim at Australia’s obsession with wealth, power, and gambling.
At the centre of the chaos is Des, a feckless heir desperately trying to save his family’s crumbling gambling empire. His fortunes take a miraculous turn when he discovers a mysterious racehorse that starts winning… and winning… and winning. But success comes
at a terrifying cost.
Because this is no ordinary horse. This is a killer horse.
As the bodies pile up and the stakes rise, Murder Horse gallops into a deliciously dark satire packed with razor-sharp humour, outrageous twists, and a thundering original score. Project funded by Create NSW and supported by Arts OutWest- Murder Horse represents a new wave of independent Australian theatre, driven by bold ideas and championing regional arts.
Created by Tim Hansen, Jack Dodds, and Gareth Thomson, and directed by Kate Smith, the
production brings together the team behind cult-favourite works, including FAST CARS and
Schapelle, Schapelle!
Audiences can expect a theatrical experience that is equal parts silly and strangely seductive, pulling at the excesses of the ultra-wealthy while diving headfirst into the murky world of vice, ambition, and consequence.
Whether you’re a lover of iconic Australiana theatre, pitch-black comedy, or simply curious about a murderous racehorse with a winning streak, this is one event you won’t want to miss.
