2025 Season Launch

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by Alani Fiorella

Welcome to 2025.

PIP Theatre's third year of operation and 4th Season is going to be a cracker!

We have lined up a wide diversity of emerging and established producers to deliver a variety of live performance genres for Brisbane audiences to experience.

With our mix of social and environmental commentary, musicals, festivals and children's theatre, we are enthusiastically invigorating the independent arts sector in Brisbane - come live, laugh, cry, dance, sing and enjoy with us in 2025.

I want everybody in Brisbane to get MAD! I want all of you to get up out of your chairs, join me on the terrace at PIP Theatre and yell, "I'm as mad as hell and I'm not going to take this anymore!"

O EP N O EP N Aus tra

Australian Open

Australian Open is a fast-paced comedy about tennis and open relationships.

It’s Felix’s 31st Birthday, but all his parents want to talk about over dinner is his boyfriend Lucas’ loss to Rodger Federer in the American Open the night before. That is until Felix mentions that he and Lucas plan to continue their open relationship even if they decide to get married – a backhand smash that kicks off a debauched game of doubles.

In a Moment

“The trick is to enjoy the good and know that even the very, very bad…they’re just…moments.”

When an unassuming accountant and an eccentric homeless man meet on a park bench their connection changes the course of both their lives.

MUD

Mae lives on a farm in feverish poverty with her not-brother Llyod. Mae knows she deserves a better life. Mae knows she can have one. And in an effort to excavate herself from this dreary existence, Mae is going to school and Mae is learning things!

But Llyod doesn’t like that. Llyod is simple. He’d much rather continue living in the pig pen instead. However, when he falls sick, and a keen Mae enlists the help of neighbour Henry - a darkly comic love/hate triangle quickly ensues. Frustrated and desperate, Mae realizes that in order to change her ill-fate, she must escape the two men who depend upon her. But is she already stuck?

Written by the greatest playwright you’ve never heard of, María Irene Fornés, winner of 9 Obie awards and a source of inspiration for Caryol Churchill, Tony Kushner and Sam Shepard. This is a writer who begins with the invention of a spirit.

MUD

María Irene Fornés

MUD

R G

I T T

The Stories. The Town. The Music.

By The Perseverance Street Team

Meet six residents from a town somewhere in Queensland. The Recluse, the Saint, the Rationalist, the Runaway, the Romantic and the Nomad each face life’s challenges in their unique way.

These are their stories. These are their songs.

After an acclaimed Queensland tour, GRIT is coming to Brisbane to the Pip Theatre in 2025 . A blend of music, storytelling and sublime singing this original and authentic production emerged from the true stories of 30 people. Grit is a series of six vignettes fused and melded with songs that examine the hopes, dreams, strengths, failings, foibles and resilience of everyday people in an everyday town.

FIREBRINGER

At the dawn of humanity, one tribe of cave-people survives the many trials of prehistoric life under the wise leadership of Jemilla, The Peacemaker.

Jemilla taught her people to express themselves, rather than bashing each others’ heads with rocks and eating each others’ babies. But one member of the tribe doesn’t seem to fit in: Zazzalil. She’s always trying to invent things to make life easier… for herself. While out hatching her latest scheme, Zazzalil stumbles upon the most important discovery in history. One that will pit her tribe against wooly mammoths, saber-toothed tigers, and change the world forever.

She’ll travel from omega to alpha, and become… the Firebringer!

Co-Producer 3rd - 12th April

Isabelle Quayle

LOVE YOU HATE YOU DRIVE YOU WILD

Molly is a young Canadian writer who, following a humiliation in her hometown, moves to Australia to try and kick-start her life. But things aren’t going smoothly for Molly; between her new manic companion, Annika, and her insufferable boss, Clive, she fears she may have made the worst decision of her life. Not to mention the talking moose who lives in her imagination and loves to torment her.

Seemingly, Molly’s only ally is Gavin, the David Bowie tribute artist who lives next door. But even the best friendships come with complications, and she is about to learn that there are some fears you can’t run away from – even on the other side of the world.

Love you hate you drive you wild is a comedy about depression, displacement and grabbing life by the antlers.

14

MAY

Octopolis

A smart and moving rom-com featuring two actors (and one octopus), Octopolis is a fascinating exploration of what makes us human.

Meet George: marine biologist turned professional hermit? Her most intimate relationship these days is with the clever Frances, an octopus she obsessively studies. Never leaving her cloistered university accommodation, George is content with sunrise yoga — and avoiding her inbox.

Enter Harry: a big thinker and an even bigger deal — he’s French and a Doctor, after all. His latest idea? A groundbreaking hypothesis about Frances that could change George’s world forever…

Sparks fly, tanks bubble, and somewhere amidst the academic rivalry and tangled tentacles, the professor and the anthropologist might just make some discoveries about themselves, Frances, and human-kind itself…

The Children

A Nuclear Powered Dark Comedy

Inspired by events in Fukushima in 2011. Coming to a Coastline near you!

As the world outside deals with disaster at a nearby nuclear powerstation, two retired Nuclear Engineers Hazel and Rob are visited by Rose, a former colleague who arrives with history and a hidden agenda. Before they decide their future, they must reconcile their past.

Olivier Award Winning Playwright Lucy Kirkwood’s play THE CHILDREN was nominated for two TONY Awards and won Three Helpmann Awards. In 2019, writers for The Guardian placed THE CHILDREN third on the list of the greatest works since 2000.

As Australia Debates a Nuclear Future in our Federal Election, THE CHILDREN asks the question: When do We Take Responsibility For the World that We Leave?

Accidental Death of an Anarchist

A lone maniac turns the Queensland police upside down in adapted Nobel Prize-winner Dario Fo’s classic play Accidental Death of an Anarchist.

The Queensland police force faces public outrage after a young, falsely accused anarchist dies during interrogation. Conflicting reports emerge: initially deemed an “accident,” the death is later reclassified as “suicide.” Amidst the scandal, the Maniac is brought into the station for “ impersonation.”

Legally certified as insane and unable to be held, he seizes the chance to impersonate a judge reopening the case, a forensic expert, and a bishop. With wit and chaos, he becomes the people’s unlikely hero—and the police’s worst nightmare.

With biting humor and razor-sharp wit, so join us this July!

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

“The course of true love never did run smooth..”

Love is a simple answer and a complicated question—a force that stirs our boldest hopes and deepest fears. Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream explores love in all its contradictions: the flutter in our hearts, the pang of jealousy, and the stab of heartbreak.

This enchanting comedy whisks our characters away to a magical forest where reality blurs, and the unpredictable power of love reigns supreme. As lovers and dreamers flee societal constraints, they encounter meddling fairies, muddling spells, and mistaken identities, revealing love’s many faces—its passion, folly, and transformation.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream reminds us that while love can be messy and confusing, it is the very essence of being human.

Tick... BOOM!

Tick, Tick... BOOM!

Tick, Tick... Boom! - Jonathan Larson’s semi-autobiographical love letter to musical theatre - is a story where creativity soars at the expense of all else.

Delve into the intense journey of a passionate composer chasing his dreams amidst the relentless pulse of New York City’s Broadway. In Tick, Tick... Boom!, the pursuit of artistic excellence takes center stage, illuminating the exhilarating highs and gut-wrenching lows of a life consumed by passion.

After a sellout season in 2024 at the iconic Old Fitz Theatre in Syndey, Join Good Time Theatrics for a performance that echoes Larson’s own legacy. An often hilarious, at times haunting reminder of the power of creativity and the sacrifices it demands.

Performed with permission of Musical Theatre International (Australasia).

Co-Producer 11th - 20th September Adult - $51 Concession - $36

CHILDREN’S PROGRAM

All Tickets: $25 Family Pass (4 people): $60 ($15ea)

CHILDREN’S PROGRAM

Rediscover the magic of your most memorable children’s tales with PIP Theatre.

Many of my fondest childhood memories come from storytelling and from discovering the enchantment of tales that have captured hearts and minds for generations. That’s why I’m excited to announce PIP is making the jump into Children’s Theatre, with a string of shows based on classic children’s literature.

First to spin off will be Charlotte’s Web in the summer school holidays! With new shows planned for each school holiday period, we’ve handpicked a fantastic ensemble of performers who are not only incredibly talented but also thrilled to bring these beloved stories to life for young audiences. Their energy and passion will make these performances truly special, ensuring an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike.

It’s your chance to share the magic of theatre with a new generation. We hope to see you (and your kids) at the show!

SHORT SEASON

DOWNTOWN! flips through the years like a musical magazine and takes you back to the music, the fashion and the freedom of the 60’s!

Join this non-stop journey through the infectious and soulful pop anthems and ballads that made household names of stars like Petula Clark, Dusty Springfield and Lulu.

June 27th - 29th

Adult - $40

Concession - $35

Lady Macbeth has had a bad rap down through the yearsknown as the ‘fiend-like queen’ and a byword for evil manipulation. Inspired by the real Lady Macbeth (Gruoch), “Lady Macbeth Uncut” seeks to redress this, telling the story from Lady Macbeth’s point of view.

Join us as we reclaim Lady Macbeth and celebrate women who don’t conform to society’s expectations!

September 4th-7th

Adult - $41

Concession - $36

As associate producer of Toucan Club, I am privileged to work with the highest calibre of Australia’s emerging and established arts makers. Toucan Club provides a stage for independent artists across a range of genres—from cabaret, improvisation, and comedy to more serious and experimental arts. With over 50 productions presented over the last two years and nearly 2,000 attendees in 2023 alone, Toucan Club has become a cornerstone of Brisbane’s arts community.

Season with my favourite event, the Toucan Club Gala Launch, which celebrates the essence of the season, and brings diverse voices to the forefront.

I look forward to welcoming you to Toucan Club in 2025 and joining together to support Australia’s independent productions.

I am passionate about championing productions that leave audiences with a lasting impression through quality,

BOOK A SEASON PASS

From seasoned pros to up-and-coming misfits, our comedians are handpicked for maximum giggles, snorts, and “oh no, did they just say that?’ moments. So grab your quirkiest friends and join us every 2nd Tuesday of the month for a night of stand-up comedy that ticks all the boxes – except the boring ones.

2nd Tuesday of the Month

MicDrop! Pot Luck Plays

Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a shower singer, our open mic night is your chance to take the stage, shake off the cobwebs, and keep those performing muscles in shape.

Share your favourite musical moments, connect with fellow theatre lovers, and celebrate live performance in a fun, welcoming atmosphere!

Every 3rd Tuesday of the Month

- $5

Take part as an Audience Member, Play Reader, or Writer!

One Monday each month, PIP Theatre opens its doors for a blind play reading. At 6:15pm, the play is revealed—readers are cast, and the audience grabs a drink. With scripts projected on the walls, it’s a fresh, fun way to spend your Monday night!

- $5 One Monday Each Month Reader - $22 Audience - $12

SUPPORT US

Make a Donation!

PIP Theatre is an independently run production company and venue, operating as a not-for-profit and registered charity. All earnings are reinvested into supporting local creatives by providing paid professional opportunities, programming and presenting purpose-driven theatre, and working with like-minded organisations to inspire social change through Purpose in Performance.

By donating to PIP Theatre, you help sustain our mission of empowering local creatives and fostering social change through meaningful performances. Your support ensures we can continue offering paid opportunities for artists and producing impactful, purpose-driven theatre.

A little UPDATE

FROM US TO YOU!

As we head into our fourth season at PIP Theatre, I’m proud to reflect on how much we’ve grown together, connecting audiences and artists in meaningful ways. Bringing four seasons to life is a testament to the incredible local talent and the need for a space like PIP Theatre—a place where artists can showcase their work, tell stories, entertain, and inspire.

Our programming model brings incredible co-producers to PIP each season, alongside select in-house productions produced by PIP Theatre. This year, our 2025 season is our biggest yet. We have a marvellous array of co-producers who have chosen some very special works to bring to you. We are excited to share these stories with all of you and we thank you for being part of this journey.

Love, Amelia

I’m the Marketing Director and one-half of the full-time team here at PIP Theatre. Alongside Amelia, I’ve been here from the very beginning, watching this space evolve into the vibrant theatre many of us now call a second home.

I’ve had the joy of seeing this space come alive with every new performance. It’s not just a venue; it’s a place where creativity, and community converge.

I’m endlessly proud of how much we’ve grown over the last three years , and I can’t wait for you to see what we have in store for 2025!

Love, Jenna

@piptheatreau

/piptheatreau

piptheatre.org

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