A vibrant and unconventional theatrical experience is currently captivating audiences in the heart of Sydney, as the historic Town Hall undergoes a spectacular transformation for the Sydney festival. 'Mama Does Derby', a new family dramedy from Windmill Production Company, has taken over Centennial Hall, installing a full-scale roller derby track within its ornate Victorian interior. The show, which premiered in Sydney ahead of a run at the Adelaide festival, continues its performances until 22 January.
An Unusual Stage for an Ambitious Tale
The production capitalises on the growing trend of presenting art in unexpected venues, a hallmark of modern city festivals. The familiar grandeur of Sydney Town Hall has been rendered wonderfully strange, with stadium-style seating banks flanking a custom-built oval flat track. Before the show even begins, skaters from the Sydney Roller Derby League warm up the audience, offering a dynamic and immersive prelude.
The story itself is a heartfelt mother-daughter narrative inspired by the real-life experiences of director Clare Watson. Playwright and theatre-maker Virginia Gay was entrusted with the script, bringing her signature style of warm, communal, and fourth wall-breaking storytelling to the project. The plot follows globetrotting, free-spirited single mother Maxine (Amber McMahon) and her overly responsible teenage daughter Billie (Elvy-Lee Quici) as they inherit a dilapidated house in regional Victoria. Forced to pause their nomadic life, they must confront their personal demons and build a new community.
A Cast Full of Heart and Humour
The central duo share a witty, Gilmore Girls-esque rapport that quickly endears them to the audience. As they settle into their new life, Max finds an unexpected outlet in roller derby, while Billie navigates school and driving lessons. They are surrounded by a fantastic supporting cast, including an eccentric neighbour, potential love interests, and a scene-stealing, spandex-clad demon named Nathan, played with brilliant physical comedy by Benjamin Hancock.
The innovative set is a character in itself, with the roller derby skaters seamlessly threading through the action. They are not just athletes but also serve as stagehands, propelling furniture like therapy couches and makeshift cars around the track during scene transitions. A live band provides a energetic soundtrack of cover songs, contributing to the show's infectious, communal atmosphere.
Ambitious Warmth with Minor Pacing Hiccups
While the show is undeniably ambitious, entertaining, and brimming with warmth, it is not without minor flaws. Some critics noted that the momentum occasionally lags, suggesting the 90-minute runtime could be tightened by about 15 minutes. The musical breaks, while enjoyable, are frequent and lengthy, and the narrative takes its time before fully engaging with its central roller derby theme.
However, these are small quibbles for a production that so successfully speaks to a broad audience. Beyond the specific mother-daughter dynamic, 'Mama Does Derby' taps into universal themes of anxiety, resilience, and the 'village' needed to support one another, particularly in a world facing climate concerns and social instability. It is a heartfelt celebration of finding strength and community in the most unexpected places.
Following its Sydney festival run until 22 January, 'Mama Does Derby' will travel to the Adelaide festival for a season beginning on 27 February.
