Choir of Hard Knocks to Return to ABC in November
The iconic musical group will star in a new documentary series tracking their latest rehearsals and reunions.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Documentary
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The ABC will broadcast the documentary series Choir of Hard Knocks: A New Chorus, which premieres on 29 November 2026. The new production follows members through musical collaborations and emotional reunions.
Why it matters
The series revisits the legacy of the original choir which first gained national prominence in 2007. It highlights the continued impact of the musical programme on its members and the Australian public.
The original 2007 documentary performance at Melbourne Town Hall drew an audience of 2,000. The original ensemble formed in 2006 with 50 members.
The players
Dr Jonathon Welch
He is the founder of the Choir of Hard Knocks who established the group in 2006.
Danielle Matthews
She serves as a co-artistic director of the choir and has been in the role since 2019.
Adam Przewlocki
He is a co-artistic director of the choir and has served in this leadership capacity since 2019.
Natalie Cattach
She is the director of the new documentary series produced for the ABC.
ABC
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation is the national broadcaster that financed the new documentary series.
The details
Directed by Natalie Cattach, the series captures the journey of the choir under the guidance of co-artistic directors Danielle Matthews and Adam Przewlocki. Production received financial support from the ABC and VicScreen, alongside technical assistance from Screen NSW.
Timeline
The choir was originally formed in 2006.
The first documentary premiered on the ABC in 2007.
Danielle Matthews and Adam Przewlocki were appointed in 2019.
The new series premieres on 29 November 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The upcoming series extends the cultural impact established by the 2007 Choir of Hard Knocks documentary. This revival reflects a broader trend of revisiting successful Australian factual programming to engage multi-generational audiences.
Viewers can watch the series premiere on the ABC starting 29 November 2026. All episodes will be available for on-demand streaming via ABC iview.
The takeaway
This series demonstrates the enduring power of music to foster community and personal resilience. Readers interested in choral arts can look for upcoming performances at venues like the Palais Theatre.
Further reading
For more stories on local productions, explore the Documentary section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by IF Magazine.
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