Western Australian audiences last saw Robert Tripolino on the Crown Theatre Perth stage a year ago, playing Jesus Christ in the Australian production of Jesus Christ Superstar. Now, he returns as Dmitry in the first Australian stage adaptation of Anastasia, opening this Thursday night.
Tripolino describes his new role as a shift from being followed to following, playing a charming conman. 'It's nice for Perth to see me not crucified this time,' he joked. 'It's really lovely to play a character that is chasing, that has a plan and needs someone.'
Anastasia follows Anya from Russia to Paris as she seeks to uncover her past. The musical, created by the Tony Award-winning team of Terrence McNally, Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, debuted on Broadway nine years ago. Audiences may also know the story from the 1997 animated film.
The cast includes Georgina Hopson as Anya, Joshua Robson as Gleb, Rodney Dobson as Vlad, and veterans Rhonda Burchmore and Nancye Hayes as Countess Lily and Dowager Empress. Tripolino noted a shift in audience attitudes toward villains, saying, 'No one likes to be fooled or tricked, we're all on our toes.'
The Australian tour launched in Melbourne in December, with Adelaide, Sydney and Brisbane shows planned for later in 2026.
