A former student of The Dance Works in Brisbane has danced her way from suburban studios to some of the world’s biggest stages, including Broadway and the West End, and now she’s back performing for local crowds at QPAC.
From Local Roots to Global Stages
After years performing overseas, Sarah Bakker has returned to Australia to join the cast of Dusty The Musical – In Concert at QPAC, running from June 5–8. The show celebrates Dusty Springfield’s legacy and stars Amy Lehpamer, with choreography by Michael Ralph. For Bakker, it’s a return to her roots, just minutes from where her journey began at The Dance Works in Brisbane.
She later trained at the Queensland Dance School of Excellence and the Young Conservatorium of Music, earning early roles in Les Misérables, Chicago, and Mary Poppins, where she played Mary more than 130 times. At 23, she debuted on Broadway as Mary in Mary Poppins at the New Amsterdam Theatre. She also performed in The Phantom of the Opera, both in Australia and on Broadway, understudying the lead role of Christine.
Building a Career Overseas
Bakker’s international career stretched into London’s West End, where she appeared in An American in Paris, Chess, and Mrs Henderson Presents. She played Young Heidi in Follies in Concert at the Royal Albert Hall, sharing the stage with veteran performers like Christine Baranski. In these roles, she not only performed but often served as dance captain or understudy for major characters.
She also worked in Europe, joining productions of Evita and bringing her Australian-grown skills to global audiences. These roles helped sharpen her abilities and establish her as a reliable and skilled performer, known for both her singing and dancing.
Back Home With Family and Focus
In 2021, Sarah Bakker returned to Australia and settled in Sydney with her husband and two daughters. She continued performing, joining the ensemble for The Phantom of the Opera in Opera Australia’s Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour in 2022.
The large-scale outdoor production allowed her to blend musical theatre with opera. This month, she returned to Brisbane to perform in Dusty The Musical – In Concert, reconnecting with the community where her career began. The show’s timing and location held special meaning, marking nearly 20 years since her early training in Queensland.
Inspiring the Next Generation
With stage credits across Broadway, the West End, and Australia, Sarah Bakker’s career offers inspiration to young dancers aiming high. Her path proves that strong local training can open doors to global opportunities.
It all began at The Dance Works, which still nurtures emerging talent in Brisbane. Even after years abroad, Bakker’s return highlights the importance of staying connected to where it all started. Her homecoming is also a nod to the Brisbane arts community that helped shape her journey.
Published 5-June-2025
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