In a refreshing twist on the Australian cultural landscape, “Garage Girls,” a vibrant play devised by its cast, now brings the uplifting story of Alice Anderson to the forefront. As the founder of Australia’s first all-girl garage, Anderson’s life journey is an inspiring tale that deserves recognition.
Led by the talented Madelaine Nunn in the role of Alice, the production captures the essence of this remarkable woman. Fueled by obsession and determination, Nunn’s portrayal hints at the complexities of Anderson’s character, subtly addressing issues of mental health and detachment from relationships. The ensemble cast, including Candace Miles, Carolyn Bock, Anna Rodway, and the standout Helen Hopkins as Alice’s father, JT, brings the story to life with vibrant performances that leave no room for confusion among the characters.
“Garage Girls” transports the audience to the 1920s, with impeccable period costumes by Sophie Woodward, effectively immersing us in the historical context. Alongside the excellent sound design by Rachel Stone, the play’s music of the era and mood-setting melodies keep the audience emotionally connected throughout the performance.
While the play boasts impressive production values, it falls short of fully exploring certain aspects of Alice’s life. Although it touches on her financial struggles, competition-related intimidation, and possible mental health issues, the production avoids delving deeper into these themes. Moreover, while addressing Alice’s relationship with historian Jessie Webb, the play maintains a light-hearted style, missing the opportunity to delve into the challenges faced by a non-heteronormative woman in the early twentieth century.
Despite these minor flaws, “Garage Girls” successfully celebrates an unsung hero in Australian history. The play’s energy and enthusiastic performances more than compensate for any shortcomings, making it a must-see production. The fact that it has already sold out at La Mama demonstrates the high demand for Australian stories about remarkable women. For those unable to secure tickets for the current run, keep an eye out for its statewide tour.
As we applaud The Shift Theatre for shedding light on Alice Anderson’s legacy, “Garage Girls” offers a heartwarming and entertaining experience that leaves audiences eager to learn more about this extraordinary woman and her groundbreaking achievements in the automotive world.
Sources:
- Schroder, J. (2023). Theatre review: Garage Girls, La Mama Courthouse. ArtsHub Australia.
- Travels, T. (2023, July 22). Review: Garage Girls at La Mama Courthouse. Theatre Travels.
- Image Credit: Taken from Facebook