By Cast. Directed by Dr Tom Heath. Play On Productions and FringeWorld. Old Mill Theatre, South Perth. Jan 22-25, 2026
This devised production explores what would happen if people communicated IRL (in real life) the way that they do online. It uses real text exchanges and comment sections to create scenes.
An ensemble cast, clad in black tops and jeans, has a lovely blend of uniformity and individuality; they move beautifully in choreographed sequences and have a great sense of teamwork throughout. I was surprised to learn that there were actually two casts, all of whom worked together to develop the piece.
By J.M. Barrie, Joyce Carol Oates and Steven Berkoff. BitterSweet Productions. Eternity Playhouse, Darlinghurst. January 24, 2026
BitterSweet again serves up three short plays (collectively titled as Acting with Honour) all over and applauded in just 90 minutes. It’s an entertaining, undemanding form with writers achieving clarity and impact without wasting words or worrying about the furniture. It also requires actors with similar skills and who don’t resort to mugging or signalling to the audience.
Deafinite Collection. Fringe World. Directed by Peter Blockey. The Hat Trick, The Pleasure Garden, Northbridge, WA. Jan 24 - Feb 1, 2025
Presented over two weekends, A Lifetime of Deaf and Deafblind 2 is the story of deaf and deaf blind experience told through story and song. It is produced, directed and compared by Peter Blockey, who was born deaf into a hearing family in regional WA, and he is the writer of the songs that form much of the show.
Music and Lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin. Book by Heather Hach. Based on the book by Amanda Brown and the MGM picture. Produced by Footlight Productions. Playhouse, Geelong Arts Centre. 16-31st January, 2026
Adapted from the movie about a not so dumb blonde girl who loses the love she’s been chasing, but finds new belief in herself, Legally Blonde was a triumph as a movie, but a mixed success as a musical. With no obvious hit numbers or 11 O’clock smashes, it relies on a steady but not exceptional score and book and the strength of the production. The last mainstage production in Australia was fairly lacklustre, and I can’t say I liked it. What I CAN say about this Footlight production is …I absolutely, positively and without reservation LOVED it.
Head First Acrobats and Fringe World. De Parel Spiegeltent, The Pleasure Garden, Northbridge, WA. Jan 24-Feb 14, 2026
While we are spoilt for choice with circus shows during Fringe World, All Star Circus is a great choice for family viewing. Playing in the olde world grandeur of De Parel Spiegeltent, with its circus tent ceiling, the setting blends intimacy with tradition, and the show puts a plethora of acts into the one-hour show.
Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Hordern Pavilion. January 22, 2026
The rebels once behind Disco Sucks thought they’d won the fight but, as the title says, Disco Never Dies, especially judging by the masses who turned up at Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion.
The packed bleachers and huge dance floor was a glittery reminder of Mardi Gras but on stage it was the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, playing the hits that this older audience grew up with. And were still dancing to.
Highwire Entertainment and FringeWorld. Directed by Elena Kirschbaum. Heath Ledger Theatre, State Theatre Centre of WA. Jan 22 - Feb 1, 2026
Primal is the kind of out-there show that people think of when they think of Fringe Festivals but has two great things in its favor. 1. This show is very, very good. 2. No sticky tent for this one - you’re in the most comfortable venue in Fringe World.
By Lisa Gatenby. Fringe World. Old Mill Theatre, South Perth, WA. Jan 21 - 25, 2026
It is fabulous that the Fringe World Festival really caters to all ages and tastes - and this show, playing at the heritage listed Old Mill Theatre, is a fabulous choice for the Primary Set.
This one-wizard show opens unconventionally and continues with multiple surprises throughout, that had the young audience yelling with enthusiasm and bouncing in their seats (which is fine because Old Mill’s steep rake ensures everyone can see).
