What happens when everyone thinks you don’t understand a word they’re saying? Growl Theatre’s latest production, The Foreigner, hilariously explores just that.
Larry Shue’s comedy, directed by Julie Bray, brings the laughs to Windsor School of Arts Hall on several dates this October and November.
Julie said that after five years of directing period plays at Growl, she wanted to dive into something more modern and playful.
“The Foreigner kept popping up on ‘funniest plays’ lists, and I loved its message about kindness and connection,” she said. “It’s a clever, big-hearted comedy that pokes fun at prejudice while celebrating friendship – exactly the kind of joy we wanted to share with our audiences.
“Setting it in the 1980s gave us a fun twist too, with costumes, music, and references people will enjoy.”
The play centres on Charlie Baker, a shy Englishman played by Tim McQueen, who seeks refuge at a rural fishing lodge in Georgia, USA. To help him avoid social interaction, his friend Froggy (Ewan Paterson) tells the lodge’s residents that Charlie doesn’t speak English. Hilarity ensues as the guests unknowingly reveal secrets and hatch schemes in his presence.
The Play’s Message and Production
“It’s a delicious, delightfully layered mix of farce, witty dialogue, and big physical comedy – think misunderstandings, double meanings, and outrageous situations,” Julie said. “What makes it charming is how the characters, quirks and all, win your heart. The humour never feels mean-spirited; it’s about connection, not cruelty.”
Julie said the cast had embraced the physical comedy, sharp timing, and heartfelt moments in equal measure.
“Rehearsals have been full of laughter – which is a good sign for a comedy – but we’ve also worked hard to make sure the characters feel real and relatable beneath the humour,” she said.
“I hope people leave with sore sides from laughing – and maybe a renewed appreciation for kindness, understanding, and a little bit of courage to step outside their comfort zone.
“Beneath all the silliness, there is a message about acceptance and breaking down barriers between people – no matter how ‘foreign’ you might feel in a situation. It gives people something to think about well after the show is over.”
She added that Growl Theatre had always been about community.
“This play is the perfect example of how live performance brings people together,” she said.
The Foreigner
- 25-26, 31 October; 1-2, 7-8 November
- 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
- What’s On This Spooky Season
- Podcast Review: The Big Pitch with Jimmy Carr
- Barred Javelin fish (Grunter) – Pomadasys kaakan
- Organic Gardening in October
- Jacaranda Festival Branches Out with Two-Day Bloom
- Aspley High Rewinds to the 2000s for A Factor
- Leading Antique Dealers to Gather at Annual Fair
- Kedron High Student Band Amped for Rock Battle
- Geebung’s Favourite Street Party Celebrates All Things Local
- Giving Day: Care for the Hospital That Cares For You
- The Rise of Stafford’s Housing Hub
- Macaranga Crescent Park Gets Nature-Inspired Upgrade
- Author Shares Chilling Inspiration Behind Cybercrime Thrillers
- Corn and Bacon Cobb
- Retirement Living Options Made Easy At Brisbane Expo
- Stafford Garden Club Still Flourishing After 60 Years
