Ned Kelly (musical)

Ned Kelly (musical) is a stage musical based on the life of the infamous Australian bushranger, Ned Kelly. Several musicals have been produced under this title, each with distinct creative teams, storylines, and musical styles. Therefore, "Ned Kelly (musical)" is a broad descriptor for a subgenre of Australian musical theatre rather than a single, definitive work.

Common themes explored in these musicals include the historical context of colonial Australia, class conflict between the selectors (farmers) and the squattocracy (wealthy landowners), police corruption, Irish nationalism, and the romanticized legend surrounding Kelly. The musicals typically depict key events in Kelly's life, such as his early run-ins with the law, the shootout at Stringybark Creek, the siege of Glenrowan, and his eventual capture and execution.

Notable productions that fall under the "Ned Kelly (musical)" umbrella include:

• Ned Kelly (1978): Music and lyrics by Reg Livermore and Patrick Cook. This version is one of the most well-known and frequently performed.

• Ned Kelly: A New Australian Musical (2016): Book and lyrics by Gary Young, music by Matthew Frank. This production aimed for a more contemporary and historically accurate portrayal of Kelly and his gang.

Due to the variations among productions, reviews and critical receptions have differed significantly. Some productions have been praised for their rousing scores and compelling narratives, while others have faced criticism for historical inaccuracies or perceived glorification of criminal activity. The enduring appeal of the Ned Kelly story ensures that new iterations of the "Ned Kelly (musical)" will likely continue to emerge.