Michael Falzon (actor)

Falzon was third of six children born to a Maltese father and an Australian mother.{{cite web|url=http://citynews.com.au/2012/side-by-side-with-falzon/ |title=Side by side with Falzon | Canberra CityNewsCanberra CityNews |publisher=Citynews.com.au |author=Helen Musa|date=12 September 2012 |accessdate=2013-01-12}} His family moved to Brisbane from Sydney in his early teens.{{cite web|title=Q & A With Michael Falzon|url=http://www.stagenoise.com/feature/1000|accessdate=14 January 2013|author=Diana Simmonds}}

He attended Kelvin Grove High School in Brisbane, known for its drama department, where he was an active member of the school choir and musical productions. Upon graduation, he intended studying English and Psychology at University of Queensland, but deferred to focus more on performance.{{cn|date=May 2024}}

He credited the Harry M. Miller arena production of Jesus Christ Superstar, starring John Farnham and Jon Stevens in 1992, as inspiring him to a career in musical theatre. Falzon had the opportunity to perform in Jesus Christ Superstar, playing the role of Judas at AIS Arena in Canberra in June 2015.{{cite web|author1=Helen Musa|title=Superstar stars named for June arena shows|url=http://citynews.com.au/2015/superstar-stars-named-june-arena-shows/|website=CityNews|publisher=Canberra City News|accessdate=24 May 2015|date=7 April 2015}}

Falzon listed his first leather jacket as one of his favourite possessions. He wore the jacket to his successful audition for We Will Rock You.{{cite web|title=My Favourite Thing – Michael Falzon, Performer, Leather Jacket|url=http://www.leatherbag.com.au/leather-bag-articles/2003/8/9/my-favourite-thing-michael-falzon-performer-leather-jacket/|publisher=The Age|accessdate=3 April 2014|author=Peter Barrett|date=9 August 2003}}

He took the role of Galileo in the Edinburgh Playhouse production of We Will Rock You in part because he had not been to Edinburgh before and wished to see the city.{{cite web|title=May and Taylor join in finale in opening of Queen musical spectacle|url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/scotland/top-stories/may-and-taylor-join-in-finale-in-opening-of-queen-musical-spectacle-1-1223377|publisher=The Scotsman|accessdate=3 April 2014|date=10 November 2009}}

In 2019, Falzon was diagnosed and began treatment for a rare and aggressive form of germ cell cancer, causing him to cancel all appearances for the remainder of the year.{{cite web |author1=Kathy McCabe |title=Sweeney Todd star Michael Falzon undergoes urgent treatment for aggressive cancer |url=https://thewest.com.au/entertainment/sweeney-todd-star-michael-falzon-undergoes-urgent-treatment-for-aggressive-cancer-ng-39082d92655a6f3aff34fe7a5abe47ab |website=The West Australian |accessdate=23 June 2019}}

Falzon died from cancer on 23 June 2020, aged 48. He is survived by his wife, violinist Jane Cho.{{Cite web|last=Ward|first=Mary|date=2020-06-23|title=Musical theatre star Michael Falzon dies aged 48|url=https://www.smh.com.au/culture/musicals/musical-theatre-star-michael-falzon-dies-aged-48-20200624-p555il.html|access-date=2020-06-23|website=The Sydney Morning Herald|language=en}}

Falzon started singing professionally in Brisbane with VocalPoint, an 8-part group specializing in close harmony, and performing both nationally and internationally. It was through his work with VocalPoint that he was invited to audition for The Pirates of Penzance in 1994, in which he was cast. Falzon's appearance in the QPAC and EssGee Entertainment production marked the start of his professional career and he toured with the company to New Zealand.

He returned to EssGee as a sailor in HMS Pinafore, understudying the role of Ralph, after performing in Hello Dolly in 1995 for The Gordon/Frost Organisation. Falzon also toured internationally with the Really Useful Company production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.{{cite web|title=Principals Galileo Michael Falzon|url=http://www.wewillrockyou.co.uk/tour/cast_and_crew/principals/michael_falzon/|publisher=WWRY Tour LTD|accessdate=19 January 2013}}

Both HMS Pinafore and Pirates of Penzance were recorded for DVD.

In 2000 he starred in the short film Computer Boy, a parody of the successful film The Matrix for Abe Forsythe. Falzon played the role of Neo, and won a Melbourne Underground Film Festival{{cite web|title=MUFF 2000 Award Winners|url=http://www.muff.com.au/2000/goings_on.html|publisher=Melbourne Underground Film Festival|accessdate=17 January 2013|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130427000407/http://www.muff.com.au/2000/goings_on.html|archivedate=27 April 2013}} for Best Actor. He styled the character after The Matrix{{'}}s actor, Keanu Reeves's portrayal of Ted from Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure.{{cite web|title=Section One: "New Australian and International Cinema" |url=http://www.muff.com.au/2000/new.html |publisher=Melbourne Underground Film Festival |accessdate=19 August 2013 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090909100522/http://www.muff.com.au/2000/new.html |archivedate=9 September 2009 }}

During this period, Falzon began a production company (SMA Productions){{cite web|title=Giving an Inch|url=http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2008/11/06/13901_cairns-theatre-reviews.html|work=The Cairns Post|accessdate=18 January 2013|author=Vaughan Mayberry|date=6 November 2008}} with entertainer colleagues providing event entertainment packages all over the world. He split his time between performing and managing his production company Good Egg Creative.

In 2003, Falzon was cast in the lead role (Galileo Figaro) for the Australian production of We Will Rock You.{{cite web|title=We Will Rock You (Melbourne) Press and News 1|url=http://www.brianmay.com/queen/wwry/OZ/press.html|accessdate=21 March 2013}} The show had opened in the West End in 2002, and was followed by Melbourne in August, 2003 (the first production outside the UK){{cite news|title=Melbourne gets Queen musical|url=http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2003/03/13/1047431134205.html|publisher=Fairfax Digital|accessdate=3 April 2013|date=13 March 2003}} before touring the rest of Australia in 2004/2005. Featuring the music of Queen and book by Ben Elton, the production allowed Falzon to combine his love of rock music with his career as a stage actor.{{cite web|title=Culture:The 80's rock on in musical|url=http://www.couriermail.com.au/ipad/culture-the-80s-rock-on-in-musical/story-fn6ck8la-1226173892341|publisher=The Sunday Mail (Qld)|accessdate=18 January 2013|author=Sally Browne|date=23 October 2011}} He starred alongside Kate Maree Hoolihan as Scaramouche, Amanda Harrison as Oz, Jason Chong as Brit, Robert Grubb as Pop, Annie Crummer as Killer Queen and Ross Givern as Khashoggi.[http://www.robertgrubb.com/Credits-Stage.htm Stage Credits, including We Will Rock You Australia tour] – Robert Grubb website{{cite web|title=We Will Rock You (review)|url=http://muse.jhu.edu/journals/tj/summary/v056/56.2rozario.html|publisher=Project Muse|accessdate=18 January 2013|author=Rebecca-Anne do Rozario}} Of the experience, Falzon said

"To work with these guys and have them have faith in you to be able to tell the story and channel Freddy (sic) Mercury for people that love his voice and his music, its very humbling and tremendously exciting." – The Sunday Times, 8 December 2013{{cite news|title=He Will Rock You|newspaper=The Sunday Times|date=8 December 2013|author=Kristy Symonds|page=97}}

We Will Rock You toured in Melbourne (7 August 2003 – 4 March 2004 Regent Theatre), Perth (27 April – June 2004 Burswood Theatre) and Brisbane (27 July – 25 September 2004 QPAC), before finishing in Sydney (9 October 2004 – 13 March 2005 Star City Lyric Theatre). Falzon left the touring production at the end of its Australian run{{cite news|title=We Will Rock You (Preview)|url=http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2004/10/08/1097089559799.html|work=The Sydney Morning Herald|accessdate=26 February 2013|author=Bernard Zuel|date=9 October 2004}} only to return to the role of Galileo in Japan after Peter Murphy (who had since taken over the role) badly injured his knee.

In 2007 Falzon was cast as the Artilleryman in the Australian and New Zealand tour of Jeff Wayne's Musical Version of The War of The Worlds- Alive on Stage.{{cite web|title=War of the Worlds in Auckland|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/music/gig-reviews/34754/i-War-of-the-Worlds-in-Auckland-i|publisher=Fairfax New Zealand Limited|accessdate=28 March 2013|author=Tracey Bond|date=30 September 2007}} The only touring company outside Europe{{cite web|title=Tour 2007 AUS/NZ|url=http://www.thewaroftheworlds.com/live-events/2007-aus-nz/default.aspx|work=The War of the Worlds|publisher=Ollie Record Productions|accessdate=1 February 2013}} included album alumni Chris Thompson, and Justin Hayward in their original roles, and was supplemented by the addition of Falzon (Artilleryman), Rachael Beck (Beth) and Shannon Noll (Parson).{{cite news|title=They've landed ... and they're really scary|url=http://www.smh.com.au/news/arts/theyve-landed--and-theyre-really-scary/2007/09/09/1189276539917.html|work=The Sydney Morning Herald|accessdate=28 March 2013|author=Richard Jinman|date=10 September 2007}} The cast performed against a towering 30-foot Machine Fighting Machine and the holographic head of narrator Richard Burton, as well as musical talents of the 48-piece ULLAdubULLA Strings and 10-piece Black Smoke Band, conducted by composer Jeff Wayne.{{cite web|title=Shannon Noll to make theatrical debut|url=http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/news/entertainment/shannon-noll-to-make-theatrical-debut/2007/05/09/1178390375815.html|work=Brisbane Times|accessdate=28 March 2013|author=Michael Gadd|date=9 May 2007}}

After five weeks rehearsal, he donned lashes, a mini-dress and knee-high boots as "Hedwig Schmitt" in John Cameron Mitchell's glam rock musical Hedwig and the Angry Inch for David M Hawkins (Showtunes). He was supported by co-star Lucinda Shaw as Yitzhak{{cite web|title=Hedwig and the Angry Inch|url=http://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/news/hedwig-and-angry-inch/344379/|publisher=Sunshine Coast Daily|accessdate=18 January 2013}} during the highly successful 2008 Brisbane and Sydney run.{{cite web|title=Hedwig and the Angry Inch @ Metro Theatre|url=http://www.liveguide.com.au/Tours/462989/Hedwig_and_the_Angry_Inch?event_id=603637|publisher=Live Guide|accessdate=25 July 2013}}

Falzon returned to the role of Galileo again in 2009/10 for the UK tour of We Will Rock You, replacing Alex Gaumond, and performing opposite Sarah French-Ellis as Scaramouche and Brenda Edwards as Killer Queen.{{cite web|title=Queen of shows rocks Edinburgh|url=http://entertainment.stv.tv/onstage/136522-queen-of-shows-rocks-edinburgh/ |publisher=STV|accessdate=24 March 2013|author=Robert Dawson Scott|date=12 November 2009}} He performed at both the Edinburgh Playhouse from 4 November 2009 to 9 January 2010{{cite web|title=Queen legends wow fans with performance at musical|url=http://www.deadlinenews.co.uk/2009/11/10/queen-legends-wow-fans-with-performance-at-musical-2032/|publisher=Dead Line|accessdate=31 January 2013|author=Rory Reynolds|date=10 November 2009}} and at the Dublin O2 Arena.{{cite web|title=Queen show rocks, but is no Killer|url=http://www.inarchive.com/page/2011-08-23/http://thepost.ie/archives/2010/0124/queen-show-rocks-but-is-no-killer-46832.html|publisher=ThePost.ie|accessdate=31 January 2013|author=Peter Crawley|date=24 January 2010}}

In 2010 he returned briefly to Australia from London, for a one-off concert performance of Adam Guettel's Floyd Collins.{{cite web|url=http://aussietheatre.com.au/news/falzons-double-trouble/ |title=Falzon's double trouble |publisher=Aussietheatre.com.au |date=24 April 2010 |accessdate=2013-01-12}} Falzon played the role of Homer opposite Peter Cousens as Floyd,{{cite web|title=Floyd Collins|url=http://www.stagenoise.com/review/1441|publisher=Stage Noise|accessdate=3 April 2013|author=Diana Simmonds|date=5 May 2010}} under the musical direction of Anne-Maree MacDonald.

He joined the 2009 Harvest Rain Theatre Company production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, in the role of an Elvis inspired, Robbie Williams influenced Pharaoh.{{cite web|url=http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/pharaoh-gets-elvis-treatment/story-e6freon6-1111119101007 |title=Michael Falzon to mix his Pharaoh with Elvis and Robbie |publisher=The Courier-Mail |date=11 March 2009 |accessdate=2013-01-12}}

Falzon returned to The War of the Worlds in 2010 for its European tour, this time creating two new roles, that of an astronomer (William Rowland, teamed with Lily Osborne as Vera May){{citation needed|date=April 2020}} at the commencement of the musical, and during the epilogue as NASA controller Marvin Krauth (voiced by Jerry Wayne). The 20 date arena tour of the UK and Europe included Amsterdam, Dublin and Manchester along with London's Wembley and O2 arenas.

Returning permanently to Australia in 2011 for Rock of Ages, Falzon starred as the quintessential 80's rocker, creating a character, that brought "sexual charisma to monstrously vain Stacee Jaxx", according to the Herald Sun.{{cite news|title=Rock of Ages a Blast|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/entertainment/arts/review-rock-of-ages-at-comedy-theatre/story-fn7eul6a-1226037076798|accessdate=13 May 2014|newspaper=Herald Sun|date=11 April 2011|author=Simon Plant|quote=lends sexual charisma to monstrously vain Stacee Jaxx }} The character being a pastiche of bad boy rockers from the 80s, he drew on several iconic rock bands for inspiration including Bon Jovi, Van Halen and Whitesnake for the role. Rock of Ages also starred End of Fashion front man Justin Burford as Drew and Amy Lehpamer as Sherry. Rock of Ages played in Melbourne and Brisbane in its eight-month run.{{cite web|title=Big wig of rock 'n' roll|url=http://www.couriermail.com.au/life/whatson/big-wig-of-rock-n-roll/story-fn8zvh1s-1226189407827|accessdate=5 April 2013|author=Nathanael Cooper|date=9 November 2011}}

In 2012 Squabbalogic and Darlinghurst Theatre premiered the Adam Gwon penned chamber musical Ordinary Days, with Falzon originating the role of Jason in Australia.{{cite news| url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/arts/out-about/from-metal-to-mature-acts/story-fn9d31nx-1226250942267 | work=The Australian | title=Ordinary Days | date=23 January 2012}} Directed by Grace Barnes and under the musical direction of Paul Geddes, the show starred Rachael Beck as Claire, as well as Erica Lovell (Deb) and Jay James-Moody (Warren). Set in New York, Ordinary Days was sung entirely acoustically, with the sole support of Geddes on piano.{{cite news|title=Ordinary Days|url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/arts/out-about/from-metal-to-mature-acts/story-fn9d31nx-1226250942267|publisher=The Australian|accessdate=18 January 2013|author=Bridget Cormack|date=23 January 2012}}

In The Production Company's Green Room Award winning{{cite web|title=2012 Green Room Awards Recipients|url=http://www.australianstage.com.au/201305066309/news/industry-news/2012-green-room-awards-recipients.html|publisher=Australian Stage Online.|accessdate=6 May 2013|date=6 May 2013}} 2012 re-imagining of Chess,{{cite web|author=AussieTheatre.com.au |url=http://aussietheatre.com.au/news/turning-point-michael-falzon-set-to-raise-the-roof/ |title=Turning point: Michael Falzon set to raise the roof |publisher=Aussietheatre.com.au |date=30 August 2012 |accessdate=2013-01-12}} he "created an ominous presence as The Arbiter (the bare-chested Chess referee) and his solo number brought the house down with his ability to engage an audience." Aussie Theatre, 24 August 2012{{cite web|author=AussieTheatre.com.au |url=http://aussietheatre.com.au/reviews/chess-the-production-copmany/ |title=Chess Rooked! |publisher=Aussietheatre.com.au |accessdate=2013-01-12}} Directed by Gale Edwards and featuring music by Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson and lyrics by Tim Rice, Chess starred Alinta Chidzey, Bert La Bonte, Mark Dickinson, Martin Crewes, Silvie Paladino and Simon Gleeson.{{cite web |author=Starring |url=http://www.theproductioncompany.com.au/chess/cast/index.html |title=Cast | CHESS |publisher=The Production Company |accessdate=2013-01-20 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://archive.today/20130219150944/http://www.theproductioncompany.com.au/chess/cast/index.html |archivedate=19 February 2013}} As with all The Production Company ventures, Chess ran for 10 performances at Melbourne's Arts Centre, from 18–26 August 2012.{{cite news|title=Chess|url=http://www.theage.com.au/entertainment/musicals/chess-20120823-24oup.html|publisher=The Age|accessdate=7 May 2013|author=Cameron Woodhead|date=24 August 2012|location=Melbourne}}

Falzon returned to the UK in November 2012 to reprise his 2010 role in the stage production of Jeff Wayne's Musical Version of The War of The Worlds.{{cite web|title=Jeff Wayne's Musical Version of The War of the Worlds, The New Generation @ The NIA, Birmingham, UK – 7th December 2012|url=http://www.gigjunkies.com/band-reviews/jeff-wayne%E2%80%99s-musical-version-of-the-war-of-the-worlds-the-new-generation-the-nia-birmingham-uk-7th-december-2012/|publisher=Gig Junkies|accessdate=17 January 2013}} A complete New Generation of not only the stage production, but the seminal rock album from which it came was announced 11 November 2011.{{cite news|url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/culturemonster/2011/11/liam-neesons-hologram-will-narrate-the-musical-war-of-the-worlds.html |title=Liam Neeson's hologram will narrate 'War of the Worlds' musical |work=The Los Angeles Times|date=2011-11-18 |accessdate=4 April 2013}} Academy Award nominee Liam Neeson led the cast in the holographic role of The Journalist, replacing Richard Burton, with Will Stapleton, Jason Donovan and Ricky Wilson taking roles on stage.{{cite web|title=Official Press Release|url=http://www.thewaroftheworlds.com/news/thenewgeneration.aspx|publisher=The Outside Organisation|accessdate=1 February 2013}} This production was filmed at London's O2 Arena on 15 December and released in cinemas through Universal Pictures.{{cite web|title=Coming to Cinemas for the Very First Time|url=http://www.close-upfilm.com/2013/02/coming-to-cinemas-for-the-very-first-time-jeff-waynes-musical-version-of-the-war-of-the-worlds-alive-on-stage-the-new-generation/|publisher=Close-Up Film|accessdate=23 February 2013}}

On 25 September 2013 it was announced that he would play scientist Leó Szilárd in the world premiere of Atomic.{{cite web|title=ATOMIC: World Premiere Musical|url=http://www.stagewhispers.com.au/stage-briefs/atomic-world-premiere-musical|publisher=Stage whispers|accessdate=8 October 2013}} With a book and lyrics by Danny Ginges and Gregory Bonsignore; and music and lyrics by Philip Foxman, this musical explores the relationship of the scientist and the woman he loves against the moral dilemma of building the ultimate weapon. Falzon stated that a motivating factor in his decision to accept the role, as well as the contemporary rock score (composed by Philip Foxman), was the opportunity to create an entirely new, unestablished character.{{cite web|title=Atomic The Musical|url=http://www.altmedia.net.au/atomic-the-musical/86017|publisher=Alternative Media Group of Australia|accessdate=13 November 2013|author=Lyndsey Knewright|date=6 November 2013}} Atomic is to be directed by Damien Gray and star Falzon as Leo Szilard with Bronwyn Mulcahy as Trude Weiss Szilard; David Whitney as Enrico Fermi; Simon Brook McLachlan; Blake Erickson; Lana Nesnas and Christy Sullivan. Its premiere season was from 16 to 30 November 2013 at NIDA Parade Theatre in Sydney.{{cite web|title=ATOMIC the Musical set to explode onstage in world premiere Sydney season|url=http://aussietheatre.com.au/news/atomic-musical-set-explode-onstage-world-premiere-sydney-season|accessdate=12 October 2013|author=Cassie Tongue|date=12 October 2013}} Atomic was recast for its Off Broadway debut the following year, however Falzon was called to New York to record the cast album.

Falzon returned to theatre in 2015 to play Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar at AIS Arena Canberra opposite Luke Kennedy as Jesus.{{cite web|author1=Peter Wilkins|title=Jesus Christ Superstar at the AIS Arena is well worth braving the cold|url=http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/musicals/jesus-christ-superstar-at-the-ais-arena-is-well-worth-braving-the-cold-20150603-ghff1m.html|website=The Sydney Morning Herald|publisher=Faifax Media|accessdate=3 June 2015|date=3 June 2015}} His performance was described as "riveting, commanding the stage and traversing the fine line between villain and victim. It is a tour de force performance that compels engagement." (Peter Wilkins, Sydney Morning Herald)

• Falzon was forced to withdraw from this production due to ill health, which was later discovered to be cancer. He was also due to appear in The Production Company's Thoroughly Modern Millie in August.{{cite web |title=Bowie, Millie and Ragtime |url=https://www.dancelife.com.au/bowie-millie-ragtime/ |website=DanceLife |access-date=20 March 2022 |date=12 April 2019}}

File:Michael Falzon Greenroom Project.jpg

Since the beginning of his career, Falzon has performed in concert many times as both a featured artist and as a soloist. This has included a gala performance of Side By Side By Sondheim for Enda Markey featuring a cast of outstanding Australian musical theatre stars and special guest Ruthie Henshall{{cite web|title=A Worthy Cause: Excitement mounts as star-studded charity concert approaches|url=http://aussietheatre.com.au/news/a-worthy-cause-excitement-mounts-as-charity-concert-approaches/|publisher=AussieTheatre.com|accessdate=20 January 2013|author=Erin James}} (continuing on as the male vocalist in the touring version of the revue). He has performed Live at the Basement{{cite web|title=MICHAEL FALZON + Susannah Stone|url=http://www.moshtix.com.au/v2/event/michael-falzon-susannah-stone/10492#|publisher=moshtix|accessdate=1 May 2013}} with his own band as well as a show in the Sydney Musical Theatre Cabaret Festival in 2012. He headlined Wickedly Showstopping with former Wicked star Lucy Durack.{{cite web|title=Theatre Queen Prepares World premier for Dubbo|url=http://www.dailyliberal.com.au/story/94189/theatre-queen-prepares-world-premiere-for-dubbo/|publisher=Daily Liberal|accessdate=20 January 2013}} Falzon performed in concert with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra in June 2013 for TSO goes to Broadway with Trisha Crowe and Guy Noble, which coincided with the launch of the musical theatre compilation album I Dreamed A Dream: Hits Songs of Broadway.{{cite web|url=http://www.tso.com.au/event/the-tso-goes-to-broadway/ |title=The TSO Goes To Broadway | Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra |publisher=Tso.com.au |accessdate=2013-01-08}} He was also a frequent guest performer for dignitaries including former Olympic gold medallist Betty Cuthbert{{cite web|title=Michael Falzon|url=http://www.australianspeaker.com/speaker1354-Michael-Falzon|publisher=Australian Speakers Bureau|accessdate=26 January 2013}} and CHOGM heads of state including former British Prime Minister Tony Blair.{{cite web|title=Falzon on Target|url=http://www.starobserver.com.au/news/australia-news/new-south-wales-news/2008/04/20/falzon-on-target/10357|publisher=Star Observer|accessdate=26 January 2013|date=20 April 2008}} As a former cast member of the Wharf Revue, Falzon performed at the Sydney Opera House 40th Birthday Concert. He again performed at the Sydney Opera House supported by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, this time with Mig Ayesa, Amanda Harrison and Carly Thomas-Smith for three performances of "The Music of Queen – Rock and Symphonic Spectacular" in Sydney, followed by a further three in Western Australia. The concert series began on 7 February 2014 followed by two performances on 8 February, before three performances in Perth, Western Australia (Joondalup Resort,{{cite web|title=Concert will rock resort|url=http://joondalup.inmycommunity.com.au/news-and-views/local-news/Concert-will-rock-resort/7653489/|publisher=Joondalup Weekender|accessdate=10 December 2013|author=Justin Bianchini|date=21 November 2013|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131216003145/http://joondalup.inmycommunity.com.au/news-and-views/local-news/Concert-will-rock-resort/7653489/|archivedate=16 December 2013}} Riverside Theatre{{cite web|title=The Music of Queen – A Rock & Symphonic Spectacular featuring the Perth Symphony Orchestra|url=http://perthsymphony.com/2013/12/04/the-music-of-queen-a-rock-symphonic-spectacular-featuring-the-perth-symphony-orchestra/|accessdate=10 December 2013|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131214122955/http://perthsymphony.com/2013/12/04/the-music-of-queen-a-rock-symphonic-spectacular-featuring-the-perth-symphony-orchestra/|archivedate=14 December 2013}} and Boardwalk Theatre){{cite web|title=The Music of Queen|url=http://www.manpac.com.au/show_inside.php?id=386|publisher=MPAC|accessdate=10 December 2013|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131213193319/http://www.manpac.com.au/show_inside.php?id=386|archivedate=13 December 2013}} with the Perth Symphony Orchestra from 13–15 February. All three of the Opera House performances sold out and the Perth shows were at capacity,{{cite web|title=Symphonic Queen a hit in Australia|url=http://www.northstreetmusic.com/archives/2784|publisher=North Street Music|accessdate=19 February 2014|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://archive.today/20140219173816/http://www.northstreetmusic.com/archives/2784|archivedate=19 February 2014}} including an 8000 person event for the City of Joondalup at the Joondalup Resort.{{cite web|title=Queen spectacular draws 8000|url=http://www.inmycommunity.com.au/news-and-views/local-news/Queen-spectacular-draws-8000/7656911/|work=Joondalup Times|accessdate=18 February 2014|author=Tyler Brown|date=18 February 2014}}

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|quote = Whether it's the gay community, Variety, breast cancer support – it doesn't matter. If it's something I believe needs support I'll always get behind it and in the end all I'm doing is singing some songs and that's not a huge commitment on my part. — Falzon to Star Observer, 20 April 2008

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}}

He was a keen supporter of many charities,{{cite web|title=Gala dinner strengthens line-up|url=http://www.starobserver.com.au/news/local-news/new-south-wales-news/2008/04/20/gala-dinner-strengthens-lineup/11036|publisher=Star Observer|accessdate=8 July 2013|date=20 April 2008}} having performed at associated fundraisers including Light The Night,{{cite web|title=Shining Bright:Light The Night 2012 is Here|url=http://aussietheatre.com.au/news/light-the-night-2012-is-here/|publisher=AussieTheatre.com|accessdate=20 January 2013|author=Erin James}} Hats Off!,{{cite web|title=Melbourne, take your Hats Off for charity|url=http://aussietheatre.com.au/news/melbourne-take-your-hats-off-for-charity/|publisher=AussieTheatre.com|accessdate=20 January 2013|author=Erin James}} Twisted Broadway,{{cite web|title=Twisted Broadway at Kensington on July 1|url=http://southern-courier.whereilive.com.au/lifestyle/story/all-twisted/|accessdate=18 January 2013|author=Martha Azzi|date=28 June 2012}} Variety and Make-A-Wish Foundation.

As part of The Rat Pack's Back – an act he co-created and produced internationally – Falzon has appeared at a variety of venues including private events around the world and a sold-out performances at Perth Zoo,{{cite web|url=http://www.qantas.com.au/infodetail/flying/inTheAir/entertainment/talkingBusinessMarch2007.pdf|publisher=QANTAS INFLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT|title=Talking Business with PETER SWITZER=17 January 2013|author=Peter Switzer|page=59|date=March 2007}} Crown and Jupiters Casinos, Twilight at Taronga, as part of Australia's Fire and Flood Benefit for the British Red Cross,{{cite web|title=West End's Sunday Best – Australia's Fire & Flood Benefit- The British Red Cross Appeal – 29th March|url=http://www.stagetalk.co.uk/news/west-ends-sunday-best-australias-fire-flood-benefit-the-british-red-cross-appeal-29th-march/|publisher=London Theatre News and Reviews|accessdate=7 March 2013|date=18 March 2009}} at London's Palace Theatre (in the wake of the 2009 natural disasters affecting the east coast of Australia), and alongside Jonathan Pryce, Judi Dench and Alfred Molina for Swing on a Star in London.

Falzon performed works by Elvis Costello and Burt Bacharach based around the album Painted From Memory{{cite web|author1=Jillian Gaier|title=Musical Stars Michael Falzon and Bobby Fox Perform Legendary Costello and Bacharach Album 'Painted From Memory'|url=http://www.broadwayworld.com/sydney/article/Musical-Stars-Michael-Falzon-and-Bobby-Fox-Perform-Legendary-Costello-and-Bacharach-Album-Painted-From-Memory-20140728#.U9tt8vmSx8F|website=BroadwayWorld.com|accessdate=1 August 2014|date=28 July 2014}} in concert with fellow musical theatre star Bobby Fox at City Recital Hall in Sydney on 24 September 2014 and toured the east coast of Australia in 2015.{{cite web|author1=Dominic Wong|title=Painted From Memory – The Music of Bacharach and Costello|url=http://artsreview.com.au/painted-from-memory-the-music-of-bacharach-and-costello/|website=Australian Arts Review|accessdate=29 September 2014|date=26 September 2014}} Falzon approached Fox in 2014 with a view to recreate the iconic 1998 album because, in his words, "it's very much written from the heart and experience and it resonates so deeply with people. Because of the lyrics and because you can hear that hurt, you get all the emotions. And with Bacharach and Costello it's not just the lyrics; there are the clever arrangements that take you there anyway" (Michael Falzon to Bernard Zuel in the Sydney Morning Herald, 20 September 2014).{{cite news|author1=Bernard Zuel|title=Deep emotions of Painted From Memory a challenge to performers|url=http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/music/deep-emotions-of-painted-from-memory-a-challenge-to-performers-20140915-10h8yq.html|accessdate=20 September 2014|work=The Sydney Morning Herald|date=20 September 2014}} Painted From Memory was produced by City Recital Hall and directed by Jonathan Biggins with musical director Isaac Haywood.

Falzon, with Luke Kennedy, Ben Mingay, Matt Lee formed Swing on This, for the Adelaide Cabaret Festival. They were later joined by Rob Mills.

As part of corporate entertainment company SMA Productions and then as managing director of Good Egg Creative, Falzon has been involved in the creation of many internationally successful acts, including The Rat Packs Back{{cite web|title=The Rat Packs Back Cabaret Act|url=http://www.entertainoz.com.au/bands-musicians/show-band/the-rat-pack-s-back|accessdate=21 November 2013}} and String Diva. Falzon became founding director of Good Egg Creative LTD,{{cite web|title=Good Egg Creative acts|url=http://www.goodegg-creative.com/acts|publisher=Good Egg Creative|accessdate=26 January 2013}} in 2009, after selling his interest in SMA Productions (Australia and UK).

Good Egg Creative currently operates in both Australia and the UK, and has been involved in The Music of Queen: Rock and Symphonic Spectacular, in Perth and Sydney, with return performances at the Sydney Opera House and The Arts Centre Melbourne in January 2017. With Asia Theatrical, Falzon and Good Egg Creative produced Swing on This for the Adelaide Cabaret Festival.{{cite web|title=Swing on This|url=http://www.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au/adelaide-cabaret-festival/shows/swing-on-this/|publisher=Adelaide Festival Centre|accessdate=7 April 2014|date=7 April 2014}} as well as Painted From Memory in conjunction with City Recital Hall and Asia Theatricals. In 2015, Good Egg Creative co-produced Kurt for Hayes Theatre Cabaret Festival, starring Justin Burford and focusing on the music of Kurt Cobain.{{cite web|author1=Daniel Morgan Potts|title=Kurt | Justin Burford and Good Egg Creative|url=http://www.australianstage.com.au/201507037367/reviews/sydney/kurt-%7C-justin-burford-and-good-egg-creative.html|website=Australian Stage|accessdate=1 January 2016|date=4 July 2015}}

• In January 2013, Falzon filmed a six-part sitcom for Ben Elton and BBC1,{{cite web|title=Kacey Ainsworth, Rufus Jones & Michael Falzon Cast in BBC One's Ben Elton Sitcom|url=http://www.tvwise.co.uk/2013/01/kacey-ainsworth-rufus-jones-michael-falzon-cast-in-bbc-ones-ben-elton-sitcom/|publisher=TVWise|accessdate=28 January 2013|author=Patrick Munn|date=5 January 2013}} entitled The Wright Way (originally titled Slings and Arrows) which aired in late April/May of that year.{{cite web|title=The Wright Way – Production Details|url=http://www.comedy.co.uk/guide/tv/the_wright_way/details/|publisher=The British Comedy Guide|accessdate=18 January 2013}} He was cast in the role of Kyle, an Australian fitness trainer and partner of the title character's ex-wife (played by Kacey Ainsworth.){{citation needed|date=December 2019}}
• Conkers Bonkers – S1 Ep2, aired 30 April 2013{{cite web|title=Conkers Bonkers|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01s8r56|publisher=BBC|accessdate=23 April 2013}}
• Lethal Swing Back – S1 Ep3, aired 7 May 2013{{cite web|title=Lethal Swing Back|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01sdyv7|publisher=BBC|accessdate=30 April 2013}}
• Curbing the Kerb – S1 Ep5, aired 21 May 2013{{cite web|title=Curbing the Kerb|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01sp9c7|publisher=BBC|accessdate=7 May 2013|date=7 May 2013}}
• The Deadly Receptacle – S1 Ep6, aired 28 May 2013{{cite web|title=The Deadly Receptacle|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b02143zj|publisher=BBC|accessdate=7 May 2013|date=7 May 2013}}
• As part of the cast of We Will Rock You, Falzon performed on RTÉ's The Late Late Show with Dr Brian May and Roger Taylor, Friday, 15 January 2010 in Ireland.{{cite news|title=Friday, 15 January 2010|url=http://www.rte.ie/tv/latelate/20100115.html|publisher=RTÉ Television|accessdate=22 January 2013|date=15 January 2010}}
• He was reported to be in contention to host The Singing Bee,{{cite web|title=Kate Ceberano nine's next target?|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/entertainment/sydney-confidential/ceberano-nines-next-target/story-e6frewz0-1111114287737|work=The Daily Telegraph|accessdate=29 January 2013|date=29 August 2007}} the position eventually going to Joey Fatone{{cite web|title=Nine gets N'Sync-ed for Singing Bee|url=http://www.mediaspy.org/2007/09/25/nine-gets-nsync-ed-for-singing-bee/|publisher=Media Spy|accessdate=29 January 2013|date=25 September 2007}}
• He was cast in the guest role of Jose De Sousa for three episodes in the penultimate season of long running Australian drama Blue Heelers.{{cite web|title=Blue Heelers: episode guide|url=http://www.australiantelevision.net/bh/series12.html|publisher=Australian Television|accessdate=14 January 2013}}
• "Too Close" – season 12, episode 37, aired 19 October 2005{{cite web|title=Blue Heelers. Ep. 493, "Too Close"|url=http://colsearch.nfsa.afc.gov.au/nfsa/search/display/display.w3p;adv=no;group=;groupequals=;holdingType=;page=0;parentid=;query=blue%20heelers%20too%20close%20Media%3A%22TELEVISION%22;querytype=;rec=1;resCount=10|publisher=National Film and Sound archive|accessdate=17 January 2013|page=685350}}
• "Promises, Promises" – season 12, episode 38, aired 26 October 2005{{cite web|title=Blue Heelers. Ep. 494, "Promises Promises"|url=http://colsearch.nfsa.afc.gov.au/nfsa/search/display/display.w3p;adv=no;group=;groupequals=;holdingType=;page=0;parentid=;query=blue%20heelers%20promises%20Media%3A%22TELEVISION%22;querytype=;rec=3;resCount=10|publisher=National Film and Sound archive|accessdate=17 January 2013|page=685351}}
• "Slaying the Demons" – season 12, episode 39, aired 2 November 2005{{cite web|title=Blue Heelers. Ep. 495, "Slaying the Demons"|url=http://colsearch.nfsa.afc.gov.au/nfsa/search/display/display.w3p;adv=no;group=;groupequals=;holdingType=;page=0;parentid=;query=blue%20heelers%20495%20Media%3A%22TELEVISION%22;querytype=;rec=0;resCount=10|publisher=National Film and Sound archive|accessdate=17 January 2013|page=685355}}
• As part of the cast of We Will Rock You, Falzon performed at the opening of the Australian Rules Football Grand Final, 2003 at the (approx) 90,000 person capacity MCG, and aired nationally on the 10 Network Australia.{{cite news|title=We will rock you, says AFL, finally with-it|url=http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2003/07/26/1059084261940.html|publisher=The Age|accessdate=21 January 2013|author=Caroline Wilson|date=27 July 2003|location=Melbourne}}
• He has performed for Carols by Candlelight in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane as well as The Good Friday Appeal in Melbourne.
• Falzon appeared as part of Swing on This on Channel 9 Gold Telethon in 2015, an annual fundraising event for Sydney Children's Hospital, and in 2016 at the similar Good Friday Appeal fundraiser for The Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne. The latter event was televised on Channel 7.
• Swing on This, including new member Rob Mills, performed at Carols in the Domain, an event televised live on channel 7 and with a live audience estimated at 80,000 people.

• Jeff Wayne's Musical Version of The War of the Worlds – The New Generation Alive! On Stage, filmed at London's O2 Arena on 15 December 2012.{{cite web|title=The War of The Worlds Alive on Stage! The New Generation|url=http://www.more2screen.com/our-content/now-booking/war-of-the-worlds-alive-on-stage/|publisher=More2Screen|accessdate=27 January 2013}} Cinematic release of the performance commenced in the UK in April 2013 before opening in Australia,{{cite web|title=The War of The Worlds to Screen Nationally|url=http://www.stagewhispers.com.au/stage-briefs/war-worlds-screen-nationally|publisher=Stage WHispers|accessdate=17 April 2013|date=17 April 2013}} Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Netherlands and New Zealand.{{cite web|title=Cinemas and tickets|url=http://www.thewaroftheworldscinema.com/cinemas-and-tickets/|publisher=More2Screen|accessdate=17 April 2013}}
• Ned, Ocean Pictures/Ned Productions, 2002{{cite web|title=Ned|url=http://thecia.com.au/reviews/n/ned/|publisher=The Cinematic Intelligence Agency|accessdate=15 January 2013}}
• Computer Boy, Cobweb Films, 2000{{cite web|title=Computer Boy (2000)|url=http://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/find-a-film/detail.aspx?tid=15819|publisher=Screen Austra;ia|accessdate=15 January 2013}}

• Atomic (The New Rock Musical),{{cite web|title=Atomic (The New Rock Musical)|url=https://music.apple.com/au/album/atomic-the-new-rock-musical/1079921609|website=itunes|access-date=8 February 2016}} in the role of Leo Szilard for Dreamingful Productions, released January 2016

::Little Fire

::The Force That Lights The Stars

::A Risk You Take

::Where Is Home

::One Day

::Greater Battle

::The Atom Bomb Is Here 1945

::Only Numbers

::What I tell Myself

• Jeff Wayne's Musical Version of The War of the Worlds – The New Generation Alive! On Stage filmed at London's O2 Arena on 15 December 2012. Released in the UK on 25 November 2013,{{cite web|title=Universal Pictures Alert: for Jeff Wayne's Musical Version of The War of the Worlds... The New Generation, released Monday 25 November|url=http://nthn.firetrench.com/2013/10/universal-pictures-alert-for-jeff-wayne%C2%B9s-musical-version-of-the-war-of-the-worlds-the-new-generation%C2%B9-released-monday-25-november/|publisher=Nighthawk News|accessdate=25 November 2013}} rolling out across the US and Australia later that week.
• I Dreamed A Dream: The Hit Songs of Broadway with Amanda Harrison; Trisha Crowe; Lucy Maunder; Jacqui Dark; Toni Lamond; Andy Conaghan and the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra released on 21 June 2013 through ABC Classics{{cite web|title=I Dreamed A Dream – Hit Songs of Broadway|url=http://abcmusic.com.au/discography/i-dreamed-dream-%E2%80%93-hit-songs-broadway|publisher=ABC|accessdate=14 June 2013}}{{Citation | author1=Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra (performer.) | title=I dreamed a dream : hit songs from broadway | publication-date=2013 | publisher=[Australia] Australian Broadcasting Corporation | url=http://trove.nla.gov.au/work/184908735 | accessdate=26 October 2015 }}

::Stars; Les Misérables{{cite web|title=Song And Dance|url=http://www.limelightmagazine.com.au/Show/6604,song-and-dance.aspx|publisher=Limelight|accessdate=24 June 2013|author=Mairi Nicolson|date=23 June 2013}}

::All I Ask of You; The Phantom of the Opera with Trisha Crowe

::Empty Chairs at Empty Tables; Les Misérables

::Bring Him Home; Les Misérables

• Michael Falzon EP (Falzon/Kempster/Hosford/ Stace/Field, Rockcandy Music and Hyperactive Music, 2007){{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/au/album/michael-falzon-ep/id524265401 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120623090447/http://itunes.apple.com/au/album/michael-falzon-ep/id524265401 |url-status=dead |archive-date=23 June 2012 |title=iTunes – Music – Michael Falzon – EP by Michael Falzon |publisher=iTunes |date=1 September 2007 |access-date=2013-01-12}}

::Frail

::She'll Be There

::Signs of Life

::Rockstar

::Some Days

• Blue Heelers.{{cite web|title=Blue Heelers: Season 12|url=http://www.fishpond.com.au/Movies/Blue-Heelers-Season-12-John-Wood/9324915086388|publisher=Australian Television Information Archive|accessdate=25 September 2013}}

::Too Close – s12 Ep 37 Aired 19 October 2005

::Promises, Promises – S12 Ep 38 Aired 26 October 2005

::Slaying The Demons – S12 Ep 39 Aired 2 November 2005

• Ned Ocean Pictures/Ned Productions 2002{{cite web|title=NED : [DVD WITH SPECIAL FEATURES]|url=http://colsearch.nfsa.afc.gov.au/nfsa/search/display/display.w3p;adv=no;group=;groupequals=;holdingType=;page=0;parentid=;query=abe%20forsythe%20Category%3A%22Comedy%22;querytype=;rec=2;resCount=10|publisher=National Film and Sound Archive|accessdate=17 January 2013|page=783160}}
• HMS Pinafore Australian & New Zealand Cast Recording 1997{{cite web|title=Essgee DVD Videos|url=http://www.essgee.com/html/Videoshoppingpage1.html|accessdate=17 January 2013}}
• The Pirates of Penzance Australian Cast Recording 5 November 1994

{{Reflist}}

• {{Official website|http://Michaelfalzon.com}}
• [http://www.morrissey.com.au/portfolio_page/michael-falzon/ Profile on Morrissey Management]
• [http://www.showcast.com.au/showcast/View/ViewActorProfile?actorId=50312&d=BgpFEvIp8xCfMd9Sc0VIrA Michael Falzon on Showcast]
• {{IMDb name|0266576}}
• {{SoundCloud}}

{{authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Falzon, Michael}}

Category:1972 births

Category:2020 deaths

Category:21st-century Australian male actors

Category:Australian male musical theatre actors

Category:20th-century Australian male actors

Category:Place of death missing

Category:Australian tenors

Category:Australian people of Maltese descent

Category:Male actors from Sydney

Category:Singers from Sydney

Category:Swing on This members

Category:Deaths from cancer in Australia