Prepare to be enchanted and deeply moved by Maytide Theatre Company’s latest production, “It Is Well with My Soul: The Musical.” Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Andrew Broadbent, the passionate director and owner behind this powerful adaptation of the heartrending true story of Anna and Horatio Spafford.
About Maytide’s It Is Well with My Soul: The Musical
What is this Production about?
This beautiful tale of tragedy and faith is based on the true story of Anna and Horatio Spafford. It follows Anna’s journey from her Norwegian roots to 19th-century Chicago and later Jerusalem, capturing the couple’s faith and resilience after losing their four daughters in the S.S. Ville du Havre shipwreck. The narrative explores themes of grief, hope, redemption, and spiritual transformation, brought to life through original music, heartfelt performances, and rich historical context. The famous hymn “It Is Well with My Soul,” written by Horatio Spafford, has inspired our stage musical.
What’s challenging about bringing this script to life?
Co-writing this adaptation of the story, it was challenging not only in the discovery of the many historical details needed to ensure accuracy, but also in ensuring it conveyed a captivating story across the stage for audiences. We have created more than just a retelling of a story – it’s a healing hymn in theatrical form.
Why did you want to be involved in this production?
I got a message from Director and Owner of Maytide Theatre Company, Ally Gum, about this play that was spoken about in a radio interview that had piqued her interest, and after she was done telling me about it, I was also hooked. I had always wanted to be involved in an Adelaide Fringe production, and I think the stars really aligned with this project
What sort of person is going to love this show?
In a Fringe festival that is full of short acts, and one-acts, It Is Well with Our Soul is a production that audiences can sink their teeth into, ingest something gritty for their brain to absorb.
This story is also inspired by a hymn that is now 153 years old, and well known across the globe in varying christian circles and churches, so parishioners will be keen to get their tickets too
What will the audience be thinking about in the car as they drive home after this show?
Hopefully the audience will be reflecting on any comparisons in their life – if they’re going through a hard time, struggling with issues – they’ll be able to find the courage to reach out to their communities and seek assistance in their faith. Or maybe they’ll even find a new creative they want to follow on social media…
What’s going to surprise people about this show?
This show isn’t a comedy. When I think about the Fringe, keywords such as comedy, cabaret, experimental come to mind. But this is a historical drama that has been fleshed out by actors passionate in their craft that want to give their best to audiences
Who has the best costume?
We’ve had a sneak peek at the costumes already – Anna and her daughters in Act One have matching red/maroon costumes that look amazing together. Horatio’s early costume while he’s still young is also pretty schmick.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
In 2026, people face many struggles in their lives – the economic crisis, homelessness, unemployment, discrimination… the list goes on. Through this story, we learn, and want our audiences to learn that we not only survive but prosper through our communities and our faith.
In the 1800s, the Spafford family faced many struggles themselves – the Great Chicago Fire, leaving ⅓ of the population homeless; the Ville du Havre shipwreck, losing their four daughters. They were surrounded by disaster, and even losing a child to scarlet fever and were lost until they found their community and focussed on their faith.
By penning the lyrics to It Is Well with My Soul, Horatio has helped and given comfort and guidance to many people over the last 150 years.
It Is Well inspires reflection and compassion, reminding viewers that sorrow need not define a life, and that love, service, and faith can chart a path forward. It offers not just a retelling—but a healing hymn in theatrical form. We are blessed for the chance to be sharing this story.
Where can patrons purchase tickets to this production?
To book tickets to Maytide’s It Is Well with My Soul: The Musical, please visit https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/maytide-s-it-is-well-with-my-soul-the-musical-af2026.
Thank you so much for sharing your incredible journey and insights with us. We wish you all the best for “Maytide’s It Is Well with My Soul: The Musical” at the Adelaide Fringe. May your performances continue to inspire and move audiences with the powerful story of the Spafford family. Break a leg!
Other production interviews can be viewed in our About The Production Series.
