Growl Theatre is set to kick off the new year with a laugh-out-loud production when it presents the one-act play Golf, Marriage and Other Murderous Matters in February.
The play, by Brisbane-based playwright Debra Chalmers, explores the dark side of Jenny and John’s marriage, as Jenny discovers that while murder might be straightforward, keeping it a secret from friends is far more complicated.
Director Aerlyn O’Brien said the production was a sharp, fast-paced farce about marriage, frustration and a wife who has been pushed a little too far.
“One definition of a farce is that it’s all about ordinary people put into extraordinary situations and then watching them lie, cheat and claw their way out of it,” Aerlyn said. “How can that not be fun?
“We wanted to start the year with something lively, funny, and relatable, and the fact that it’s Australian and modern is an added bonus. It’s also a play that offers strong, complex roles for mature actors, especially women, which is something we’re passionate about highlighting at Growl.
“Debra Chalmers has such a witty, human voice as a playwright, and it’s not often we get the opportunity to put on local plays.”
Flipping Age Tropes and Showcasing Talent
The cast features Claire Marchesi as Jenny and Rob Connaughton as John.
“There are often less opportunities for mature women in theatre, but in this show we can showcase some of our gorgeous, talented ladies alongside some of our fresher-faced, but no less talented, men,” Aerlyn said. “Ultimately, I wanted to experiment with some of the usual age tropes – for example, the older man with his young ingenue wife – and in this play we were able to flip this on its head.”
Aerlyn, Growl’s Tech Manager, previously directed Charley’s Aunt in 2022 while on maternity leave for her first child. She said her current maternity leave inspired her to return to directing.
“I’ve always loved the creative challenge of directing – shaping a story, guiding performances, and bringing all the design elements together into one cohesive piece,” she said.
“I’m hoping to be able to take some more risks with the tech in this show. Subtle shifts in light can highlight moments of tension or absurdity, and clever sound cues can heighten the comedy or punctuate a dramatic beat.
“Every comedy fan will enjoy this show, especially any woman that knows the feeling of being pushed to the edge.”
Book your tickets here: 2026 Season – Golf, Marriage and Other Murderous Matters
Golf, Marriage and Other Murderous Matters
- 6-15 February
- Windsor School of Arts Hall
- 381 Lutwyche Road, Windsor
Read more stories from the Chermside Guide’s print magazine here:
- Chermside Connect: Updates from the Community
- What’s Hot Around Town
- Podcast Review:Christmas Past
- New Netflix Christmas Classics
- Steam Through History on Christmas Twilight Train
- Jungle Perch Kuhlia rupestris
- Dance Into the Future with Confidence
- Waitangi Festival Celebrates Aotearoa and Pacific Heritage
- Free Christmas Lunch Connects Stepping Stone Members
- Holiday Magic Shines in Beloved Christmas Ballet
- Burnie Brae: From Homestead to Community Heart
- Northside Ready to Ring in the New Year
- School Holiday Fun at Downfall Creek Bushland Centre
- All Saints Invites Everyone to Celebrate Christmas Together
- Local Students Tune Into Out-of-this-World Talk
- Brisbane Bells to Ring in the Festive Season
