Driftwood The Musical

A magical story of art and creativity, survival and perseverance, family, freedom and love… and foldable umbrellas!

Presented by the Umbrella Foundation

The inspirational story of the renowned Austrian/Australian sculptor Karl Duldig and his artist/inventor wife, Slawa Horowitz-Duldig. We follow their lives in pre-war Vienna, Slawa’s ingenious invention of the foldable umbrella, and an incredible chain of events that took place after miraculously escaping the Holocaust and rebuilding their careers as artists in Melbourne.

Adapted for the stage by award-winning playwright Jane Bodie, composer Anthony Barnhill, based on the original memoir by Eva de Jong-Duldig. Acclaimed Director Gary Abrahams brings a stellar cast to the stage. 

"The stagecraft is mesmerising. The music is sublime. The acting and singing are superlative. This story and stunningly-crafted musical deserves to tour the world as a beacon of hope, and a reminder to avoid history repeating itself."
Australian Stage

“Driftwood comes together with so much talent and commitment.  Based on a true story, this show has heart”.
Cameron Woodhead, The Age

Cast & Creatives

Starring Tania de Jong AM, Anton Berezin, Michaela Burger, Nelson Gardner and Bridget Costello

Adapted for the stage by Jane Bodie

Based on the Memoir by Eva de Jong-Duldig

Original music by Anthony Barnhill

Lyrics by Anthony Barnhill, Jane Bodie and Tania de Jong AM

Directed by Gary Abrahams