Reviews

The Kransky Sisters are back in town again — not so far to travel this time in their trusty, and no doubt crusty, Morris from their home in Esk, sunny Queensland. They bring with them their own version of the spirit of Christmas, complete with hilarious paraphernalia from the past and an odd assortment of musical instruments: tuba, a very old, old keyboard, and an array of domestic utensils, including a toilet brush to be used as a rhythmic instrument.

MILF The Musical is dusted in glitter and packed with comedy, but also brimming with feminist heart. This production of the Australian-made musical knows its tone, trusts its performers, and commits fully to the world it has created. It’s cheeky without being careless, heartfelt without slipping into sentimentality, and consistently confident in the choices it makes.

Seasonal programming can be a tricky sleight of hand. Lean too hard into novelty and the work risks becoming disposable; aim too lofty and you lose the very families you’re hoping to welcome through the doors. Flabbergasters: Magic! Circus! Christmas! threads that needle with confidence and cheer, delivering a polished, joyful work that understands its audience without ever talking down to them.

Image (above): playwright Stephen Vagg, with Griffin Walsh and Gregory Wilken