Our Story

Founded in June 1981, Launceston Musical Society Inc (LMS) began as the Light Opera Society (LOS)—a group of passionate vocal performers led by Musical Director Barry Birtwistle. Originally operating more like a choir, LOS met weekly and performed light operas such as H.M.S. Pinafore, The Gypsy Baron, The Mikado, and The Pirates of Penzance at Broadland House School Hall.

A major milestone came in 1991, when LOS staged Naughty Marietta at the Princess Theatre for the first time. From then on, LOS productions found their home at the Princess Theatre and the Earl Arts Centre, where they continue to perform today.

In 1995, LOS transitioned to full-scale musicals, beginning with Oklahoma! and followed by classics like The Music Man, Show Boat, and South Pacific. In 2001, the group officially became Launceston Musical Society Inc, reflecting its broader musical theatre focus. That same year, The Sound of Music played to full houses, marking a turning point both artistically and financially.

Since then, LMS has continued to grow, producing high-quality musicals including:

• Anything Goes

• Hello Dolly

• 42nd Street

• A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum

• Guys and Dolls

• Blood Brothers

• Spamalot

• Legally Blonde

• Godspell

• You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown

• Elf – The Musical

• Wizard of Oz

With over four decades of musical excellence, LMS remains committed to celebrating local talent and enriching Launceston’s performing arts community.