Cast & Crew
Julia Robertson
Director
Julia Robertson is a multidisciplinary theatre maker and director based on Gadigal land. She is the Artistic Director of Little Eggs Collective, the 2024 recipient of the Ensemble Theatre’s Sandra Bates Award for Directing, and a finalist for the 2024 Opera Australia Young Artist Award.In 2023, Julia directed and co-wrote the musical Metropolis (with music by Zara Stanton), which premiered at Hayes Theatre Co., winning three Sydney Theatre Awards and earning a nomination for Best Musical in TIMEOUT Sydney's Arts and Culture Awards.
She also worked as Assistant Director on Opera Australia’s Il Trittico and Ensemble Theatre’s The Great Divide and The Heartbreak Choir, while directing Do You Mind? and leading developments for RATS and The Colour of Rust.
Her 2025 projects include The Wind in the Willows (Kincoppal Rose Bay), Carousel in Concert (SMOS and Cunard Cruises), and The Producers (Joshua Robson Productions and Hayes Theatre Co.). Previous directing highlights include PINOCCHIO (Sydney Fringe 2018, NIDA Emerging Directors Award).
The Rime of the Ancient Mariner (2019), James and the Giant Peach (2022), and The Servant of Two Masters (2023). A classically trained musician, Julia received the Ian Potter Cultural Trust Grant in 2023 for a residency with the Royal Shakespeare Company. She has also studied acting at the Lee Strasberg Institute (New York) and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (London).
Valerie Hull
Musical Director
Val started out as a professional performer at the age of 7 in pantomimes but soon found it was far more fun working behind the scenes. As a Head Teacher of Performing Arts, she coordinated many shows and festivals. After co-founding Picton Theatre Group, Val was Musical Director for Rockdale Musical Society’s ‘La Cage aux Folles’, ‘My Fair Lady’ and ‘Les Miserables’ before joining Engadine MS for many shows including ‘West Side Story’, ‘Into the Woods’, ‘Peter Pan’, ‘Legally Blonde’ and ‘Mamma Mia’.
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Recently she has been MD for Arcadian Theatre’s ‘I Love You, You’re Perfect Now Change’, ‘Downtown’ and ‘Ladies in Black’. In 2023 she will be MD tunning cast for Stephen Schwartz’s ‘Snapshots’ – an Australian Premiere. She has also had great pleasure working with their children’s theatre, ACT and with NTC.
Myah Boyne
Choreographer, Louise Bigelow
Myah is truly delighted to be choreographing the SMOS production of “Carousel”, while also taking on the role of Louise Bigelow. Having been a part of musical theatre for quite some time, Myah has contributed her talent to past productions including “Annie”, “Frozen Jnr”, “South Pacific” (on board the Queen Elizabeth to Japan in 2024), “Finding Nemo Jnr”, “Heathers” and “9 to 5”.
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Most recently Myah has performed in “Cats” bringing to life the role of Victoria, while she is also starting to choreograph her next “The Diary of a Wimpy Kid”. Myah first began training at the renowned dance studio “Dance it” in 2013, and also does vocal training with Leigh McRae. With eager anticipation, Myah looks forward to taking on this new and exciting role as choreographer onboard the Queen Elizabeth.
Sam Hernandez
Costume Designer
Sam Hernandez is an emerging artist with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Costume from the National Institute of Dramatic Arts (NIDA). Initially drawn to the world of fashion, Sam's passion evolved into a deep fascination with theatrical costume design and costume history. His academic journey at NIDA further nurtured this interest, allowing him to refine his craft in both costume making and design.
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With a versatile approach, Sam has created a wide range of costumes, from contemporary and historical pieces to imaginative designs. His work reflects a keen eye for detail and an understanding of the narrative power of clothing in performance. Always striving to push boundaries, Sam is dedicated to merging the artistry of costume with the transformative experience of theatre. Sam is thrilled to be taking his designs to the high seas aboard the Queen Elizabeth for Carousel in Concert.
Ileana Pipitone
Carrie Pipperidge
Ileana Pipitone is an accomplished international singer, actress, and musical performer, proudly holding dual citizenship in Italy and Australia.
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Her passion for the performing arts began at a young age, with studies in contemporary singing starting in 2005 and opera singing in 2008. She graduated with distinction from the prestigious Bernstein School of Musical Theatre in Bologna, Italy, under the mentorship of Shawna Farrell in 2015. Ileana has shone in professional productions, portraying roles such as Strawberry (Freckleface Strawberry), Wendla (Spring Awakening), Alice Beane (Titanic), and Rapunzel (Into the Woods – Italian Tour), among others. Her career in Italy also includes winning multiple singing competitions with original songs like *Un Treno Per Dove and Con Calma, as well as her widely acclaimed Freddie Mercury Tribute in Milan.
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Since moving to Sydney in 2017, Ileana has continued to enchant audiences, taking on lead roles such as Amy (Songs for a New World), Mary Magdalene (Jesus Christ Superstar), April and Martha (Company), and The Witch (Into the Woods). She frequently performs at local venues and in street performances across Sydney, while further refining her craft through programs at renowned institutions such as the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and NIDA.
Ian Stark
Projection Design
Carousel is a show that's very close to Ian’s heart - in 1970, aged seven, he made his theatre debut as one of the Snow Children and as an adult he’s also played Jigger and the Starkeeper. Other roles include Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof, Nathan Detroit in Guys & Dolls and PT Barnum in Barnum. More recently he’s toured the UK, Ireland and Singapore in the one-man comedy, Tea With The Old Queen, earning a place in The Times' Top Ten shows at Edinburgh Fringe (2012). Ian has collected seven Swan Awards over the years, as a director and performer, and in 2019 was awarded the National Operatic and Dramatic Association’s Flame Award for Inspirational Contribution to Theatre Excellence. Ian runs TOPS Musical Theatre Company and vIT Media, a media production business offering video and graphic production. Ian has been delighted to work on this production of Carousel, delivering a collection of designs reflecting the quirks of traditional painted stage cloths. Ian lives in Hampshire, UK with wife Fiona. His two sons, Jack and Daniel (named after a favourite social activity) are currently at sea in cruise productions of We Will Rock You and Choir of Man.
Pippa Luscombe
Julie Jordan
Hailing from Sydney’s Sutherland Shire, Pippa Luscombe is an Australian actor, singer, and musical theatre performer with a passion for storytelling. As a recent graduate of the National Institute of Dramatic Art's (NIDA) Diploma of Musical Theatre, Pippa has undergone intensive training across multiple facets of singing, acting, and dancing for musical theatre, stage, and screen. She continues to train and upskill her craft under the guidance of her vocal coach, Louise Butler, and regular classes at Sydney Dance Company.
Pippa spent much of her childhood and adolescence in the performing arts scene, busying herself with various dance concerts, singing eisteddfods, and community musicals. Pippa's most recent show, Bankstown Theatre Company's 2024 production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, won Fourth Wall Review's Favourite Show of The Year.
Unlike most eight-year-olds, Pippa's favorite genre of music to sing around the house was opera, inspired after watching her primary school music teacher's performance of 'Time To Say Goodbye' at Sydney's Town Hall. Over a decade later, the classically trained soprano is thrilled to take on the role of Julie Jordan in the Sydney Musical and Opera Society's production of Carousel aboard Cunard's beautiful Queen Elizabeth.
Melissa Bush
Mrs Mullin
Melissa’s journey into musical theatre began almost 35 years ago, and she has since embraced a wide range of roles. Some of her favorites include Anna Leonowens (The King and I), Nellie Forbush (South Pacific), Irene Molloy (Hello, Dolly!), Tracy Lord (High Society), Rosemary Pilkington (How to Succeed Business Without Really Trying), Fastrada (Pippin) and Consuela/Somewhere singer (West Side Story).
She especially enjoyed the comedic challenges of Sister Mary Amnesia (Nunsense) and the delightful unpredictability of Rona Peretti (The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee). Melissa is deeply grateful to her early vocal coaches, Patricia Worley-Smith, Bob Tasman-Smith, and Raymond McDonald, for their guidance, support and encouragement.
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When she’s not performing, Melissa enjoys cruising with friends and family, making the chance to be part of this production a true bucket list experience.
Simon Militano
Billy Bigelow
Baritone, Simon Militano has performed in many musicals, operas and concert performances. Lead roles include Curly (Oklahoma), Emile De Becque (South Pacific - Cunard Queen Elizabeth Cruise Line and RMS), King Alfonso (La Favorite), The Beast (Beauty and The Beast), Billy Bigelow (Carousel), Inspector Javert (Les Misérables) and Daddy Warbucks (Annie).
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Simon has performed across Australia, New Zealand and In Tulane New Orleans and performed at Carnegie Hall, New York, as the winner of an international voice competition (Golden Voices of America). Simon has performed in numerous concerts (Fly Me to the Moon, Broadway Reversed, Music for the Silver Screen), cabaret performances and major events. Simon also regularly performs his own show ‘Some Enchanted Evening’ a celebration of the Golden Age of Broadway and Big Band Specialists.
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Simon has studied extensively with D’oyly Carte Baritone Eric Thornton.
Andrew Pennycuick
David Bascombe
Andrew Pennycuick holds a Diploma in Music Theatre from the Royal Academy of Music and has been an avid part of the theatre scene in both Melbourne and Sydney.
Most recently, Andrew performed with the Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Sydney, Gente, Gente, and The Co-Operative. With a diverse repertoire across many productions, some of Andrew's favorite roles include Enjolras in Les Misérables, Robert in Company, and Major-General Stanley in The Pirates of Penzance. Andrew is thrilled to be performing on his very first cruise with Cunard.
Michele Lansdown
Nettie Fowler
Michele is celebrated for her versatility and captivating performances on Sydney stages. She has brought to life an impressive array of iconic roles, including Norma Desmond in the Sydney premiere of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Sunset Boulevard, Desiree (A Little Night Music), Muriel Eubanks (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels), and Agatha Makin in the critically acclaimed Riverside season of The Hatpin. Her portrayal of Velma von Tussle in Packemin’s production of Hairspray showcased her comedic flair, while her title role in Squabbalogic’s award-winning, sold-out production of The Drowsy Chaperone at The Hayes Theatre cemented her reputation as a leading talent.
Other notable roles include The Witch (Into the Woods), Madame Giry (The Phantom of the Opera), Lillian La Fleur (Squabbalogic’s Nine), Joanne (Company), and the devious Ursula (The Little Mermaid). Michele's talents extended internationally when she was invited to New York to perform as Henrietta in RPG Production’s Stalker the Musical at the NYC Fringe Festival. In 2022, she delighted audiences with her sold-out Sydney cabaret, Don’t Make Me Sing.
Recently, Michele has continued to captivate audiences with standout performances. In 2022, she played the delightfully obnoxious Ms. Fleming in Sydney's sold-out season of Heathers. The following year, she tackled the challenging role of Margaret White, Carrie’s psychotic mother, in Carrie. In 2024, Michele brought humor and heart to her portrayal of Violet in Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5, followed by a moving performance as Grizabella in Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cats.
Tyson Dinnie
Enoch Snow
Tyson Dinnie brings depth, charm, and a touch of humor to every role he plays. With a natural stage presence and a talent for embodying complex characters, he captivates audiences with performances that are both heartfelt and dynamic.
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In Carousel, Tyson masterfully portrays Enoch Snow, balancing ambition with endearing quirks. His ability to convey Enoch’s optimism, determination, and romantic ideals makes the character both memorable and relatable. Whether delivering comedic moments or heartfelt scenes, Tyson’s performance shines with authenticity and warmth.
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A dedicated and passionate performer, Tyson continues to impress with his versatility and storytelling ability. His journey in the performing arts is one to watch, as he brings each character to life with skill and sincerity
Andrew Del Popolo
Jigger Craigin
Andrew is happy to once more have the opportunity to perform on the Queen Elizabeth's stage. He had the privilege of performing the role of Luther Billis (South Pacific) onboard the Queen Elizabeth on its 2024 voyage from Sydney to Tokyo.
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Andrew has been involved in the performing arts in Sydney for the last 33 years performing in multiple musicals, plays & concerts, including 8 different productions of the classic 'West Side Story'. This is his 3rd production of 'Carousel' but his first playing the role of the dastardly Jigger Craigin.
Luc-Pierre Tannous
Enoch Snow Jnr
Luc-Pierre Tannous lives in Kiama with his family and has just graduated The National Institute of Dramatic Arts with a Diploma of Musical Theatre. He is now moving on to finish his Bachelor of Music at The Academy of Music and Performing Arts.
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Luc-Pierre has loved being onstage since the age of 12, with roles including Maui in Moana Jr, Sebastian in The Little Mermaid Jr, Eddie in Mamma Mia, Joly and Marius Understudy in Les Miserables, Willard in Footloose the Musical, Boq in Wicked, Frederic in The Pirates of Penzance, Timothy and Tommy Understudy in Carrie: The Musical with Ignite Theatre Company, Feuilly and Marius Understudy in Packemin Production’s season of Les Miserables, and Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys. He is also due to appear as Spongebob in SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical in March.
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Luc-Pierre is looking to pursue a career in the professional musical theatre industry, both in Australia and internationally. He is so excited to be a part of this amazing production, and cannot wait to share it with audiences aboard the Queen Elizabeth!
Stephen Halstead
Starkeeper/Dr Seldon
Stephen is a seasoned performer with over 30 years of experience in the realms of film and stage. Renowned for his dynamic presence and versatility, Stephen has captivated audiences throughout Sydney with a diverse array of compelling performances.
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Recently, he made a triumphant return to the stage as Harold in "The Full Monty", after a six-year hiatus, which underscored his enduring passion for musical theatre. Throughout his illustrious career, Stephen has forged strong associations with numerous theatre groups, earning particular acclaim for his portrayal of the King in "The King and I" in multiple productions.
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His career highlights also include a notable role alongside Nicole Kidman in the sequel to "The Year My Voice Broke", titled "Flirting". Additionally, Stephen showcased his range as "Stephen (Jesus)" in "Godspell" and as a Principal Singer in Stephen Sondheim's "Putting It Together". His comedic flair shone through as Roger De Bris in "The Producers" and in "Catch Me If You Can".
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Stephen remains a cherished figure in the Sydney theatre scene, consistently bringing depth, charisma, and authenticity to every role he embodies.
Samantha Atkinson
Ensemble
Samantha is a Wollongong based musician and actor who has been performing onstage since the age of 6. Her first role was Bielke in Fiddler on the Roof, at age 9, where she then joined Arcadian’s Children’s Theatre until she was 16 years old.
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Samantha continued performing in shows such as The Phantom of the Opera, Carousel, Wicked and Pippin (playing Catherine). From there she has performed as Jane in Tarzan, Sharahzade in Twisted , Mabel in The Pirates of Penzance, English Woman in Page 9’s production of Witches, and most recently as Deb in Ordinary Days.
This is Samantha’s first cruise performance and she is excited to see where this journey takes her.
Ebony Copper-Black
Ensemble
A graduate of NIDA, Ebony has more recently focused on her music career, touring globally under the artist name "Wolfe Black."
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Her career includes touring across North America, Europe, and Australia alongside renowned artists such as James Bay, Lukas Graham, James Morrison, Arcade Fire, and Half Moon Run, most recently touring Australia with her husband, Hein Cooper. She has also appeared on Triple J's "Like A Version."
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Ebony has been a part of a number of musical theatre productions in Sydney. Some of her notable roles include Carrie (Carrie The Musical), Nessa (Wicked), Bombalurina (Cats), Gabriella (High School Musical), Blue Girl (Downtown) and Anna (Spring Awakening), among others.
Jordyn Burns
Ensemble
Jordyn started her musical theatre journey in 2019 as a featured dancer in The Wizard of Oz. Her love of performing and theatre have grown from here and she has continued to perform in many community theatre shows each year.
Jordyn was a featured dancer in Priscilla Queen of the Desert, South Pacific, Heathers, 9 to 5 and was part of the cast that performed South Pacific on board the Queen Elizabeth in March 2024, as well as cabaret and concert style shows while onboard.
Jordyn has danced for over 20 years in all genres and is a qualified makeup artist specialising in stage, screen and special FX make up. Jordyn is now studying an advanced Diploma of photography.
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Jordyn simply cannot wait to once again set sail on the Queen Elizabeth and bring to life another beautiful classic and put on a show for you all.
Nicole Butler
Ensemble
Nicole has performed in theatres across Sydney and has just stepped off stage after leading the D2 Productions From Page to Stage concert series, raising much needed funds for Dementia Australia. Last year she also starred as Billy’s Mum in Billy Elliot, and she led a talented cast onboard the Queen Elizabeth, reprising one of her favourite roles, Nellie Forbush in South Pacific, and as a lead concert vocalist.
Her other recent theatre credits include Gussie (Merrily We Roll Along), Gertrude McFuzz (Seussical), Miss Hannigan (Annie) and Miss Adelaide (Guys and Dolls), with her favourite roles to date being Janet Van De Graaff (The Drowsy Chaperone) and Ariel (The Little Mermaid).
Nicole is always thrilled to be on stage and loves performing with every ounce of her being. After this exciting adventure on board, she will be leading another beautiful cast in Sydney, starring as Liza Minnelli in The Boy From Oz.
Hein Cooper
Ensemble
Inspired by nature and his coastal lifestyle living in regional Australia, Cooper draws from indie folk and blues influences such as a Ziggy Alberts, Ben Howard and Bon Iver to create a sound that offers up reflections on self transformation, authenticity and the power of dreaming.
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After releasing three studio length albums and international tours supporting James Bay, Lukas Graham and Hollow Coves, Cooper has established himself with solid ground in the folk roots scene within Australia and abroad and amassed over 23 million streams on Spotify with his hit song ‘Rusty’ (released via Indica Records in 2016). He performed Triple J’s ‘Like a Version’ in 2019, received high rotation for 6 singles on the station and had the 7th most played song on French Canadian radio in 2017 with his french version of ‘Rusty’.
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After a Hiatus following Covid, Hein is back with the announcement of his fourth full length album, produced independently by himself and due for release in 2025 through his newly established label ‘Livingstone Records’.
Riley Druce
Ensemble
Riley is a performer/voice actor who is thrilled to be joining SMOS on his first cruise experience. Riley’s credits include various roles in Heathers (2023) the ensemble in Catch me if You Can (2024) and most recently as The Rum Tum Tugger in CATS (2024).
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Over the ditch in Aotearoa, Riley has performed in Les Miserables (2019), ensemble/understudy for Dr Dillamond and The Wizard in Wicked (2023) and he made his professional debut in the ensemble of Jersey Boys (G&T Auckland/Wellington 2021). Riley is also a proud graduate of the Actors’ Program (2022).
Christian Hemsley
Ensemble
Christian is ecstatic and so grateful to have another opportunity to perform again on the Queen Elizabeth! His last voyage from Sydney to Tokyo in March 2024, celebrating the Rodgers and Hammerstein 85th Anniversary, South Pacific! An amazing experience with overwhelming love and admiration, this voyage to Singapore will be a highlight in 2025.
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Christian has performed in countless shows with companies here in Sydney and Canberra over the past 20 years, both contemporary and classic musical theatre productions as principal, ensemble and backstage support and sung with the legendary Canberra Qwire. Christians most recent roles ranged from Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 to having courage to play the Lion in The Wizard of OZ, and of course reprising his role as Stewpot in the production of South Pacific on Queen Elizabeth!
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Christian is thrilled to be a part of Sydney Musical and Opera Society and premiering Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Carousel on board Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth, we know, like Christian, you’ll “all have a real good time!”
Carina Herbert
Ensemble
Carina’s dedication, passion, and remarkable stage presence make her an unforgettable part of every production she graces. With a natural ability to captivate audiences, her performances tell powerful stories that leave a lasting impact.
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Her journey in the performing arts is one of talent, hard work, and inspiration. From intimate stages to world-class productions, Carina continues to shine, bringing characters to life with depth and authenticity.
Selin Idris
Ensemble
Having recently finished her Diploma in Musical Theatre at NIDA, Selin Idris, is a young Turkish performer, based in Sydney.
Her recent performance credits include her professional debut as Onstage Cover in ‘Metropolis’ (Little Eggs Collective/Hayes Theatre Co) 2023, which received five nominations and three awards at the Sydney Theatre Awards.
Following this, Selin performed in the movement ensemble in the independent play ‘From Morning to Midnight’ (The Other Theatre) 2023.
Leanne Trumper
Ensemble
Leanne grew up in a musical family where singing and performing were a way of life. Her passion for musicals ignited in Year 9 when she was cast as a dancer in Guys and Dolls. This led to annual high school productions, including standout roles as Rosie in Bye Bye Birdie and the titular role in Sugar (Some Like It Hot).
While earning her pharmacy degree, Leanne continued her vocal training privately and joined the Kentucky Opera Chorus after graduating. A whirlwind Contiki romance brought her to Australia, where she discovered her “tribe” in Sydney’s vibrant musical theatre community.
Since then, Leanne has performed in a variety of roles, including the chorus of Bye Bye Birdie and Les Misérables, herself in Godspell, a ghost in The Secret Garden, Jenny in Company, multiple characters in Honk!, Sister Bertha in The Sound of Music, Mazeppa in Gypsy, Carol Strong in Catch Me If You Can, and most recently Vicki Nichols in The Full Monty.
Leanne extends her heartfelt thanks to her family for their support and to the production team for giving her this opportunity. She is forever grateful for the joy and camaraderie theatre continues to bring to her life.
Justina Varkuleviciute
Harpist
Justina Varkuleviciute, a distinguished harpist, has a wealth of experience to accompany her name. Justina studied Bachelor of Classical Music Performance and Pedagogy at the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre under Professor Joana Daunyte. She also studied at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire in the UK with Professor Rita Schindler through the Erasmus exchange program.
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Justina has performed with many prominent orchestras, including the Lithuanian National Symphony Orchestra, Lithuanian Chamber Orchestra, Lithuanian State Symphony Orchestra and the Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre. Internationally, she has played with the Parnu City Symphony Orchestra in Estonia, the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire Symphony Orchestra in the UK and The Film Harmonia Orchestra in Sydney, Australia. Justina has performed in several countries, including Lithuania, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Croatia, and Australia.
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Some of her notable experiences include recording at Abbey Road Studios in London, playing at the Birmingham Symphony Hall, Eglise de La Madeleine in Paris, and on the Cunard cruise ship Queen Elizabeth II. Justina Varkuleviciute continues to inspire with her exceptional harp playing, making significant contributions to the music community both in Lithuania and abroad.
