The ghost with the most is making his way to the west coast, as the acclaimed production of Beetlejuice The Musical prepares to haunt Crown Theatre Perth this August. This eight-time Tony Award-nominated show, based on Tim Burton's iconic 1988 film, promises to deliver a spectacular blend of dark comedy, puppetry, and supernatural antics to Australian audiences.
A Star-Studded Cast Brings the Netherworld to Life
Leading the charge in the titular role is Broadway musical theatre performer Andy Karl, a Laurence Olivier Award-winner known for his work in productions like Groundhog Day. Karl takes over from the show's composer, Eddie Perfect, who originally portrayed Beetlejuice during the musical's 2025 Melbourne season. Perfect, a proud alumnus of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), has passed the baton to Karl for the Perth run, expressing his excitement about the casting.
Eddie Perfect's Perth Connection and Creative Legacy
In a heartfelt statement, Perfect reflected on his deep ties to Perth, noting that his musical theatre training began at WAAPA as a young dreamer. "I love Perth, and I am thrilled that 20 years later my love affair with this city continues with Beetlejuice The Musical," he said. Perfect, who recently debuted his new Australian musical Tivoli Lovely with WAAPA in November 2025, praised the show's themes and Karl's involvement. "This show about death, and life, is full of incredible puppetry, magic and dark comedy, and I am overjoyed that my friend and Broadway superstar Andy Karl will be continuing to haunt audiences across Australia."
Andy Karl's Enthusiasm for the Australian Tour
Andy Karl shared his enthusiasm for bringing the production to Perth, highlighting the opportunity to explore Australia while doing what he loves. "I am so lucky to do what I love while also getting to see so much of Australia," Karl remarked. "I'm thrilled to bring Beetlejuice Down Under. Perth, get ready for the netherworld, the most 'Down Under' you can get." His portrayal of the degenerate demon, known for a passion for stripes, is set to captivate audiences with its energetic and comedic flair.
Plot and Production Details
The musical follows the story of teenager Lydia Deetz, whose fascination with death leads her to conjure Beetlejuice after moving into a haunted house. With an original score composed by Eddie Perfect, the production stays true to the film's dark yet humorous spirit while incorporating innovative stage elements. The show's run at Crown Theatre Perth is scheduled to begin on August 16, offering a limited engagement that fans won't want to miss.
As anticipation builds, audiences are encouraged to join the waitlist via the official website to secure tickets before they go on sale later this year. This production marks a significant cultural event for Perth, blending local talent with international star power in a show that celebrates both life and the afterlife through theatrical magic.
