Happily ever after? Not a chance.
The smash-hit, deliciously-twisted production GRIMM will cast its spell over Melbourne from 25 August to 12 September 2026.
Within shadowy corridors and haunting landscapes, Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood and an array of familiar figures emerge to reveal the twisted, unsettling and often hilarious truths beneath the fairy tales we thought we knew.
From the acclaimed company behind the theatrical triumphs Frankenstein, 1984 and Fantastic Mr Fox – GRIMM reworks these iconic tales from the Brothers Grimm into an high-octane stage experience that delights, disturbs and surprises in equal measure.
Shake & Stir Artistic Director Nick Skubij said the success of the production confirmed what the company had long suspected about the enduring power of the Grimm tales:
“These stories have fascinated us for years. Reworked and adapted time and time again, seeing audiences respond so strongly to the original versions’ darkness, humour and complexity has been highly rewarding.
They’re stories people think they know, but here, audience will see something a bit different. Because of this, the morals, the brutality, and the humanity feel startlingly new – and relevant. GRIMM lets some hard truths rise to the surface.”
Expect a lavish loud and lucid night Photo by Joel Devereux
The production is helmed by award‑winning writer and director Daniel Evans, who brings his signature blend of precision storytelling and theatrical surprise – delivering a production that is visually arresting, sharply paced and rich in atmosphere.
Evans, currently the Artistic Director of Queensland Theatre Company, has a long list of credits including The Great Gatsby (co-Directed with Skubij), A Few Good Men and Vietgone.
Skubij added:
“Dan’s ability to balance theatrical grit with emotional clarity is extraordinary. His staging of GRIMM pushes expectations and keeps audiences leaning forward and salivating for more. It’s theatre that refuses to sit politely in the dark.”
Adding to the production’s bewitching visual identity is the work of celebrated Australian fashion designer and proud Marrithiyal man Paul McCann, whose costumes drew acclaim for their stunning elegance and theatrical flourishes.
Renowned for his high-end, luxe designs worn by celebs on red carpets around the world and celebrated as one of Australia’s leading First Nations fashion voices, McCann’s costumes bring a fierce, contemporary edge to the Grimm world.
Skubij continued:
“Paul’s designs don’t just dress the story – they elevate it. They’re fearless, glamorous and unforgettable. Seeing his work command the stage has been another great joy of this production.”
Expect a lavish, loud and lucid night. Tuck yourself in – bedtime stories will never be the same again.
GRIMM – Tales from the Brothers Grimm swoops into the Arts Centre Melbourne’s Fairfax Studio from 25 August – 12 September 2026 as part of a national tour.
See website for full tour dates, including a season at QPAC Brisbane from 22 May – 13 June.
Tickets: https://www.artscentremelbourne.com.au/whats-on/2026/theatre/grimm
Website: https://shakeandstir.com.au/mainstage/grimm#touring-dates
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/shakeandstir/
Photo credits: Joel Devereux
GRIMM is created and adapted by Shake & Stir Theatre Co.
Creatives Adaptor Nelle Lee Director Daniel Evans Costume Designer Paul McCann Set Designer Josh McIntosh Lighting Designer Trent Suidgeest Sound Designer / Composer Guy Webster Creators Ross Balbuziente, Nelle Lee, and Nick Skubij
Featuring Aljin Abella, Helen Cassidy, Nelle Lee and Henry Rollo.
Age recommendation: 14 years and over
Warnings: This production contains adult themes, simulated violence and gore, infrequent coarse language, depiction of alcohol consumption, smoke effects, strobe lighting, and loud sound effects/music.
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