Written by Brisbane playwright Patrick Mu’a, Sunny Tribe District is brought to life by the Salad Days Collective in co-production with PIP Theatre, delivering a night of pure fun and infectious hilarity.
PIP Theatre is a quaint, intimate venue, complete with a cosy bar that sets the tone for an evening of independent theatre. The bustling audience is welcomed by enthusiastic ‘Camp Counsellors’ named Kurt, Kay, Kris and Celly with a C, played by four absolute triple threat performers: Peter Wood, Isabella Berlese, Darcy Jones and Rebecca Day, who also impressively co-directs alongside Jasmine Prasser.
Sunny Tribe District started out as a ten minute play at Short + Sweet Festival, taking home several awards. It was developed into a full-length work by Robert the Cat and premiered as part of Metro Arts’ 2022 performance season.
Set in a happy camp named Sunny Tribe District (STD – double meaning intended), this production is a laugh-out-loud, breath of fresh air. The singing is endearing, the set is cute, the choreography is tight, and the humour is constant.
The straightforward plot focuses on missing founder of the camp named Ken. Our loveable and optimistic counsellors keep the pace moving with their well-meaning mission to spread joy and cure ‘Sadlings.’ The adorable and flirtatious Kurt, played Peter Wood, brings superb physical comedy.
The show delivers a steady stream of laughs, songs and double entendres. The tongue-in-cheek humour is matched by strong physical comedy, while the charismatic cast keeps the energy high. Packed with puns and fast-paced gags, the entertainment rarely lets up.
The audience is presented with many musical numbers, monologues, sexual tension and beautiful interactions. The chemistry is apparent, the mood is kitsch, and the laughter is loud.
The stunning Kay, played by Isabella Berlese, presents subtle humour with many dimensions. A notable moment is the sultry performance, Having A Moment, featuring Kay as her alter-ego, Bubbles the Dominatrix.
Each camp counsellor has their own approach towards how to cure sadness, and we hear all about it through many genres of song. Accents are impressive, from cheesy American to cool British.
As Kris, Darcy Jones gives a standout performance. The ‘Southern’ and captivating Celly with a C, played by Rebecca Day, is a crowd favourite, her charm irresistible.
These extroverted talents are contrasted by the down-to-earth Nick (Nick with a K, Knick?) played by Peter Hatton, Ken’s long-lost brother, who is visiting the camp to find him. Knick has eyes for the beautiful Kay, adding yet another amusing flirtation.
The witty and melodramatic script leans funny over complex. The audience is treated to many hilarious scenarios and humdingers with the cast earning every one of their laughs.
By the end of the play, the performers feel more like good friends than characters in a play. With a well-deserved standing ovation, the play felt like a roaring success. Sunny Tribe District has achieved its mission – to make happiness reborn, with everyone leaving the theatre in a great mood. Bravo!
Sunny Tribe District is presented by Salad Days Collective and runs to 28 March at PIP Theatre. 20 Park Road Milton Qld 4064.
Tickets: https://piptheatre.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/157484
Website: https://piptheatre.org/sunny-tribe-district/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/salad.days.collective/ and https://www.instagram.com/piptheatreau/
Images supplied.
