REVIEW:
W at the Old Fitz Theatre
Reviewed by: Bridget Whitford
Date of Performance: 5 June 2026
Photo Credit: Phil Erbacher
Three Words
Relevant. Visceral. Languid.
Best Thing
Danielle Cormack is a powerhouse. She injects every entrance with fierce energy, unwavering commitment, and a magnetic stage presence that radiates through her eyes. The role feels tailor-made for her, and her performance alone is worth the price of admission.
Least Favourite Thing
At times, the production's pace and energy lagged, particularly in the opening stages. The intimacy of the Old Fitz occasionally encouraged performances that felt more suited to screen than stage. While quieter, grounded moments are essential for contrast and emotional payoff, some scenes could benefit from greater urgency and momentum. Hopefully, this develops further as the season progresses.
How the Audience Reacted
A particular moment between two characters (which I won't spoil) elicited audible gasps and delighted reactions throughout the audience.
Lighting
Luna impresses once again with a dynamic and evocative lighting design. The flashing backlights during the football sequences were particularly effective, heightening both tension and atmosphere.
Set & Costume Design
Meg Anderson, Rosie Slaveiro, and Aloma Barnes have collaborated seamlessly to create a visual world that convincingly evokes the changing-room setting while also supporting the play's transitions across time and place. The design elements work cohesively to keep the story moving without losing clarity.
Acting
This is a strong ensemble, with each performer bringing distinct physicality and nuance to their role. Shannon Ryan delivers a highly believable performance as the team captain, while Grace Smibert shines as her conflicted wife. Celeste Cortes-Davis brings warmth, humour, and infectious energy to her role, and Ally Morgan captures the complexities of balancing a football career with motherhood. Edyll Ismail, while occasionally leaning towards a more screen-oriented style, offers a thoughtful and grounded portrayal of a character marked by uncertainty and self-doubt. Led by the formidable Danielle Cormack, the cast works together to create an ensemble that is consistently engaging to watch.
Writing
Australian theatre has seen no shortage of stories centred on men's football. In a culture that reveres sport as passionately as Australia does, it is refreshing to see a female sporting ensemble afforded the same complexity. These characters are funny, flawed, sexy, heartbreaking, ambitious, and fully realised.
Madelaine Nunn has crafted a compelling and necessary work, and I hope it encourages more playwrights to continue exploring stories like this on Australian stages.
Directing
Rachel Chant's direction demonstrates a clear commitment to truthfulness and restraint. Every creative element feels carefully supported, resulting in a production that never tips into sensationalism. While some scenes could benefit from increased intensity and energy, the grounded approach suits the intimacy of the Old Fitz perfectly.
Overall
If you're looking for a production that embodies many of the qualities of a great mainstage show, this is well worth your time. It will resonate particularly strongly with female footy fans, but its themes extend far beyond the sporting world. Most importantly, it offers a powerful reminder of why stories about women in sport deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated.
My Review in Emojis
🏉❤️🔥💔👏
Diamond Rating (out of 5)
💎💎💎💎
Runs Until
14 June 2026