The ANU Law Revue

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The ANU Law Revue is an annual revue at the Australian National University.

It was born of the political events of the 1960s and 70s. At a time when some thought Australia in complete political turmoil, where the old was making way for the new, and then the new was making way for the old again (see the article on the Whitlam Dismissal for an example), students were seeking to use whatever means of demonstration and engagement that were available to them. The Law Revue became one such means of youth political discourse and also a rare voice for the popular youth feeling of disenfranchisement and social marginalisation.

It was started in 1972 by Lola Hedge and Max Prime, two law students in their final year of studies. The purpose of the revue was to lampoon, satirise and ridicule the political and social status quo. Annual productions began on a shoestring budget, containing loosely tied bundles of skits enthusiastically acted by an amateur student cast. Then in the 1980s the law revue became a musical comedy, incorporating songs into its framework of skits. Now, short films also form a part of the revue and having grown with the times it has acquired cult status in the Australian Capital Territory, attracting parliamentarians, tourists and students alike for the entire run of shows. It has become an integral part of Australian political culture and a vibrant means of youth communication.

Recent years have seen a marked increase in the quality of productions. In 2002, 'The Sound of Law' saw the introduction of a strong musical theme that has been a significant part of every revue since. In 2005, 'Star Laws' introduced video skits which have also now become a standard of the ANU Law Revue.

The ANU Law Revue has become quite popular on campus with every year since 2004 selling out. For this reason in 2007 they decided to add another show on Wednesday nights which was well received.

Recent law revues have included: