Looking for Alibrandi stage show brings Melina Marchetta’s beloved coming-of-age story to country South Australia
Josie Alibrandi, the fiery Italian-Australian teen who defined a generation, is heading to regional SA in a bold, funny and beautifully layered stage adaptation of Looking for Alibrandi.
Presented by Country Arts SA and produced by Brink Productions, the critically acclaimed show is stopping in Whyalla, Port Pirie, Mount Gambier and Renmark this September – and for anyone who came of age clutching Melina Marchetta’s dog-eared novel, this one’s for you.
After selling out seasons in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide, this Aussie classic is finally hitting the country roads – bringing Josie’s world to life with all the chaos, heart and tomato-stained truth of growing up between cultures, expectations, and generations. There’s first love, family drama, backyard passata-making and a cracking Aussie pop soundtrack – plus that never-not-relatable teen angst wrapped in a Catholic school uniform.
Director Stephen Nicolazzo says the story changed his life. From being ashamed of his heritage to feeling seen for the first time, Josie’s journey gave him pride. Now, with this vibrant stage version, he’s hoping to do the same for others — especially those living outside the city lights.
“There might be a person who has migrated to this country, who’s living in the regions, who sees this story and goes ‘I’m going to be OK’. And that’s why we’re doing it.”
The cast includes returning leads Chanella Macri as Josie and Jennifer Vuletic, alongside Amanda McGregor, and South Australians Riley Warner, Chris Asimos, and Port Pirie’s own Ashton Malcolm.
Critics have called the production “a whip-smart, heart-tugging, laugh-out-loud delight” (Stage Whispers), and praised Nicolazzo’s direction for letting audiences feel “as if they are sitting at the kitchen table” (InDaily). Even those new to the story will find something to connect with – Broadway World described it as “a rewarding evening of theatre” whether or not you’ve read the book or seen the film.
And GlamAdelaide gave it five stars, calling it “a stunning adaptation… with humour, heart, and good cooking.”
For those heading to the Mount Gambier shows, there’s an added treat. On Tuesday 9 September, ticketholders can enjoy an Italian-style aperitivo experience at Café Metro – a long table of food, warm hospitality, and all the comfort of nonna’s kitchen. It’s just a $10 add-on to your ticket, with limited spots available.
TOUR DATES
WHYALLA
Middleback Arts Centre
September 2 & 3
PORT PIRIE
Northern Festival Centre
September 5
MOUNT GAMBIER
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre
September 9 & 10
RENMARK
Chaffey Theatre
September 12
CLICK HERE to grab your tickets!
School performances will be held in all four tour locations. Contact Country Arts SA Education at [email protected] for more information.
