Looking for Alibrandi is one of Australia’s most loved novels (with a great film adaptation as well), encapsulating the development of the Australian identity across generations (and being studied by thousands of students across their high school English studies). Now the book has been adapted into a play by Vidya Rajan which retains the same essence of the text but translates it to the stage for a new audience. 

The play’s themes remain surprisingly pertinent, dealing with identity, belonging and family as well as what it means to be an Australian. The play follows Josie, who is in her HSC year, as she navigates her relationship with her mother, her grandmother, her studies and her new partner in a tumultuous year when generations collide and stories begin to merge. 

Chanella Macri plays the lead role in the production and does a fantastic job, conveying a great deal of emotion as well as highlighting the complexity of Josie’s identity as she navigates some challenging life events. Lucia Mastrantone is an absolute standout as Josie’s mum as well as one of her school friends, bringing a great deal of humour and drama to her roles to really brighten up the show and give it a great deal of substance. Jennifer Vuletic also does a great job as Josie’s tough grandmother, and the moment where she lets her guard down to Josie at the end of the play is one of the most poignant of the entire night. 

The play is perhaps slightly too long in its first half but really picks up in the second as the action and the drama really begin to unfold. Arguably the most emotional moment of the night, which drives the end of the play, is the death of Josie’s best friend John, who was going to study law at the University of Sydney with her. This brings in Ashton Malcolm as John and Chris Asimos as Josie’s father, who provides support for Josie in the wake of the tragedy as well as support for her career. The acting across the board is very strong in this production and really leans into the depth of the storyline. 

Overall, this is a fantastic work and a wonderful adaptation of the original novel, being joyous, sombre and profound in equal parts. The acting is fantastic, and the depth of the characterisation makes for a truly meaningful watch. As the question of what it means to be an Australian continues to percolate in the public consciousness, this production feels more relevant than ever and should be commended to all. 

Rating: ★★★★1/2

Looking for Alibrandi is touring nationally. For more information, click here.

All photo credits: Matt Byrne