An American in Paris

Broadway and West End smash An American in Paris is singing and dancing its way into Brisbane, with the four-time Tony-winner kicking off its Australian run of shows at the QPAC Lyric Theatre on Saturday, January 8.

The dazzling show is based on 1951 film of the same name so yes, if you're a fan of classic movies — and classic big-screen musicals starring none other than the inimitable Gene Kelly at that — its name will definitely sound familiar.

Story-wise, the musical follows an American soldier in Paris (because its moniker is that straightforward). Set at the end of the Second World War, it charts US GI's Jerry Mulligan's exploits as he falls for a French woman. Well, he is celebrating the end of the combat in the notably romantic city, after all.

Bringing the Oscar-winning 70-year-old film to the stage, this version of An American in Paris is directed by acclaimed contemporary ballet choreographer Christopher Wheeldon — and adapted for theatre and choreographed by him, too. The Aussie run is also being staged in collaboration with the Australian Ballet, so expect to see some of their dancers helping to bring the musical to life.

George and Ira Gershwin's songs make the leap to the theatre as well, including 'I Got Rhythm', 'S Wonderful', 'But Not For Me' and 'They Can't Take That Away From Me'.

Initially, An American in Paris debuted in Paris — where else? — in 2014, before hitting Broadway, Boston and West End. In Brisbane, it'll play until Sunday, January 30.

Tristram Kenton

Images: Tristram Kenton.