It’s not every day you see a hostage situation take place in a pie shop. At least not one that is funny and entertaining. Mr Red Light is an original play written by Carl Bland and produced by Nightsong, an independent theatre company from New Zealand. After successful performances on its 2025 Australian tour, Sydney is its final stop, and it’s a show not to be missed.
When Mr Red Light enters Joker’s pie shop intending to rob it, it’s clear that the lives of its employees and patrons will be changed forever. But what happens during this 90-minute ride will have you laughing, singing and contemplating what you would do in the same situation.
Carl Bland wears a lot of different hats in this production. Not only has he written an incredibly funny and meaningful play, he has also co-directed with Ben Crowder. He plays several roles, including a bumbling Trevor the police negotiator, a dung beetle, an Italian war hero and a heartbreakingly adorable ant. Yes, I fell for his portrayal of an ant. A sentence I never thought I would write.
The whole cast is incredible. Their comedic timing, physical comedy and utter wackiness boost the script, making it an unforgettable production. Jennifer Ludlam plays Eva, a woman who is misunderstood but sees everything. Ludlam’s portrayal feels like a safe space for all the other members of the cast. She is fierce, funny and a pleasant surprise.
Nova Moala Knox plays Chrys, a rebellious woman who knows her place in the world but seems lost in it. Knox’s portrayal is fierce, defiant and bold. A woman to be reckoned with – literally.
Angus Stevens plays Joker, the loveable employee of Joker’s, and he is sweet, kind and brave. He brings a soft innocence to the performance, offering a grounding presence the show craves amid its other big characters.
Finally, the biggest character of them all Mr Red Light himself, played by Brayden Cresswell. Not only is he towering over everyone in the height department, but he is a looming presence. Weird, wounded and wonderful, Cresswell’s portrayal is a little maniacal at times but always full of heart. He is always ‘on’ and present, and this feels like a role made for him.
Set Designer Andrew Foster should be commended for his work to create what looks and functions like a pie shop. There is an oven with real pies inside, a Pepsi fridge with cold drinks, and a whole lot of hidden pieces that bring the show to life.
I don’t want to spoil anything, but some of the effects used I haven’t seen on stage ever before. The use of faux walls, flipping doors and mechanical equipment that is hiding in plain sight adds to the overall excitement. It is a brilliant set, and having the audience positioned on the outside looking in makes it feel real.
Allowing the cast to use the space in front of the stage for entrances and exits also draws the audience in and holds their attention. Video designer Charley Draper smartly ties the script into what’s happening on the menu screens. The displays change constantly, helping to enhance the messaging and bringing everything together.
Mr Red Light is such an ingeniously written play. Both cast and creatives work together to achieve a brilliant performance. The symbolism, the comedy and the way that every character has an arc will stay with me.
Something I always find fascinating is when characters are trying to make a point at the same time, using different examples and arriving at the same ending. This happens a lot in Mr Red Light, and it’s so refreshing because it’s human. It shows that connection goes beyond what we say. And I think that’s something the world needs right now. Even though we don’t always hear each other, we can come to the same conclusion and understand their point of view.
Nothing is stopping Mr Red Light, and when it comes to a theatre near you, don’t stop yourself from seeing it. I’m giving you the green light to go. You won’t regret it.
Mr Red Light runs to 12 July at Lennox Theatre, Riverside Theatres. Corner Church & Market St, Parramatta NSW 2150.
Tickets are available here!
Website: https://riversideparramatta.com.au/whats-on/mr-red-light/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/riversideparra/ and https://www.instagram.com/nightsongnz/
Images supplied.
