Review by Jeff Smith – The Last Ship – Performance date: Wednesday 15 April 2026. The Glasshouse Theatre, Brisbane.
Sting’s The Last Ship musical has docked in Australia for an exclusive season at Queensland Performing Arts Centre’s (QPAC’s) newest theatre, The Glasshouse. A major coup for the river city, this awe-inspiring production written by, composed and starring legendary Grammy award-wining artist Sting is the perfect opening for one of Australia’s most spectacular venues.
The Last Ship is built around Sting’s personal story and origins in Wallsend, a shipbuilding town in northeast England where he grew up. The shipyard is the heart of the town and its identity. The premise of the story is framed around the decline of the shipyard and its threatened closure which triggers a deeply emotional and defiant response from the community and its people – as Sting says ‘we build ships’ and it’s the shipyard that is the heartbeat and spirit of this town.
Star-Studded Power: Incredible Cast and Ensemble
The opportunity to witness Sting live on stage in the role of shipyard foreman, Jackie White is truly once in a lifetime. The mere presence of Sting adds star power and authenticity to this production – it’s his personal story to share and we are privileged to witness his performance as White which is captivating, commanding and world class.
“The mere presence of Sting adds star power and authenticity to this production…”
Jeff Smith
Shaggy’s role as the Wallsend Ferryman is also show-stopping, with his signature comedic timing lapped up by the audience. His charisma also works effortlessly alongside the cast and ensemble. His scenes with Sting particularly stand out showcasing an incredible partnership and chemistry with his friend and collaborator.
While Sting and Shaggy may be the star attractions, the supporting cast members are exceptional. Declan Bennett is brilliant as Gideon, a character based on young Sting and Lauren Samuels steals the show with her acting and vocals as his Gideon’s love interest, Meg. Annette Mclaughlin owns the stage as Peggy White, her heartfelt portrayal of Jackie White’s wife winning over audiences.
Much credit to the local ensemble of The Last Ship who take the Australian production to a new level lifting the performance to masterful heights.
Set Design and Venue: The Anchor of The Last Ship
The Last Ship’s jaw dropping set design sets it apart from other musicals and theatre shows transporting the audience into the working shipyard with its massive steel framework.
The epic set is a focal point of the show drawing you in with its scale and grandeur further accentuating the narrative and music.
The lighting, production and sets are spellbinding in the intimacy of the 1500 seat Glasshouse.
The venue itself almost seems like it has been purpose built for The Last Ship.
“Every lyric hit deeply with Sting’s immaculate vocal delivery adding the emotional weight each moment.”
Jeff Smith
The Music: Sting’s Tribute to his Origins
At the heart of The Last Ship’s songbook is Sting’s 1991 album The Soul Cages which inspired the origins of this work. The music is deeply personal and rooted in Sting’s rich family history and connection to the shipyard. The music is a living soundtrack and tribute to Wallsend, its people and community. Every lyric hit deeply with Sting’s immaculate vocal delivery adding the emotional weight each moment.
Highlights included the opening Island of Souls, which sets the tone for the production, alongside reimagined versions of Sting classics All This Time and When We Dance. The music has a distinct Celtic and folk feel that echoes Sting’s greatest songwriting. Refreshingly this is not a greatest hits musical, but one where the original songs fit perfectly around the dialogue and powerful story.
Message of Hope
The Last Ship is a musical for these times, filled with hope and optimism. It’s a reminder in an era of disconnect that community is vital to survival. The power of community and resilience is also a central message that is relevant today.
Final Thoughts
The Last Ship’s Brisbane season is a definitive moment for Australian theatre audiences. It’s a rare opportunity to witness one of the greatest names in music on stage and hear a story that is timeless and will continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
The production firmly anchors Brisbane as a cultural and arts destination making the Australian run a must-see attraction for music and theatre lovers around the country.
Playing until 3 May – Do whatever you can to secure a ticket.
Ticket Link
Follow The Last Ship on Facebook
Image Credits:
