Three-hander surreal queer farce for theatre.
Photography by Darren Gill, from 2026 Midsumma Brunswick Mechanics Institute production.
Sadie has a crush on her co-worker, Georgia. But they only see each other online. So in a desperate attempt to capture Georgia’s attention, Sadie buys a pet octopus – Robert. Her ploy works, and Georgia is suddenly very interested. However, Sadie’s at a complete loss for how to proceed to the next stage – so she asks Robert for help. Luckily, Robert can talk. Unluckily, Robert is only familiar with the courting rituals of cephlapods. What follows is one of the most ridiculous and unexpected date scenes you will ever see on stage.
‘Robert the Octopus’ premiered in the 2026 Midsumma Festival, presented by Next Wave and Merri-bek Council. It was directed by Kimberley Twiner and starred Lily Fish as Robert, Mich McCowage as Sadie and Hallie Goodman as Georgia. This production is currently featured in Showcase Victoria for 2026. A copy of the script is available on request.
“Instant cult classic status.” Nick Pilgrim, Theatre Matters
“By the end of the year, [this show] will be all anyone is talking about.” Greg Gorton, Theatre Travels
“I was vomit laughing. Extraordinarily wonderful and glorious.” Anne-Marie Peard, Smart Arts
Alexander Duncan 