Sisterella, the musical that opened at the Melbourne's Regent Theatre on March 7, will close earlier than planned, after just 81 performances and posting a loss of $2 million (Australian). A further $6 million (Australian) was spent by producers prior to its opening. The final Melbourne performance will be on May 17.

Producer Kevin Jacobsen is adamant the Sydney production will open as planned at the Capitol Theatre on June 27, and plans are underway for productions of the show in both London and the United States. He believes the earlier closure will allow time to make changes and rejig the show, including recasting certain roles. Insiders report there are creative tensions between Jacobsen and the shows's writer/director/star Larry Hart about planned changes.

Michael Jackson had been heavily promoted as the Executive Producer of the production, however he did not visit Melbourne to see the show.

An Australian cast album of Sisterella is to be recorded and released by Sony next month.

Bookings (61-3-)132 849. --By Peter Ford
Australia Correspondent