Meet the writer/composer

Based in Bendigo, Victoria, Dr. Robert Holian is a general practitioner with a passion for theatre, and writing catchy, fun music.

Robert has used MIDI sequencing software to compose music since primary school, and began to write comedy songs in the style of Tim Minchin whilst at high school. He later studied music theory and orchestration at the University of Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, achieving high distinctions. In addition to his career as a medical professional, Robert has written scores for short films and advertisements.

He is also no stranger to creative writing, having completed a 90,000 word young adult fantasy novel by the age of 17. After starting two attempts at writing a full-length musical over the years, Robert is proud to present his first completed musical theatre work, Plant-based Musical.

“Toy Story in a garden”

A show with broad appeal to children and adults alike, Plant-based Musical explores a journey of self-discovery for one tree, planted in an established suburban garden and maturing over the seasons. But when the green-thumbed gardener dies and the property passes over to a young family, the garden faces a new and much greater problem: the threat of being concreted over. Will the plants squabble and compete for every last resource and advantage, or will they learn to work together with their new family in harmony?

Hilarious and imaginative, completely absurd, and yet universally relatable, the world of Plant-based Musical is a witty microcosm of social conflict, joy, grief, acceptance, and renewal. A rarity in these times, it isn’t based on existing intellectual property, but is an entirely original story, with a uniquely Australian irreverence and tone.

You can also take a look at the script synopsis, and character descriptions.

About the music

The score of Plant-based Musical is a vivid, high-energy romp with tunes that will worm their way into your subconscious for weeks from your very first listen.

While firmly rooted in the contemporary musical theatre idiom, the music feels instantly familiar due to the infusion of flavours of 1970s and 80s artists - particularly at the intersection between pop, soul, R&B, and disco. Musical influences include Earth, Wind & Fire, Diana Ross, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, Donna Summer, Aretha Franklin, Barry White, Bonnie Tyler, Hall & Oates, Prince, The Weather Girls, Odyssey, Stevie Wonder, and even early-career Mariah Carey.

The songs each move the story forward, in the style of integrated book musicals, and achieve a consistent and cohesive sonic signature. The instrumentation is a tight 8-player band consisting of:

  • Two Trumpets

  • Tenor Saxophone

  • Baritone Saxophone

  • Keyboard

  • Bass Guitar

  • Drum Kit

  • Percussion (Woodblock, Bongo Drums, Shaker, Cowbell, Tambourine, Vibraphone, Cajon, Cabasa, Triangle, Chimes)

So what are you waiting for? Have a listen to the demo tracks for Plant-based Musical.