Entertainment
30 April, 2026
Cosi balances humour and heart
IN a world gone mad, Cosi is the light relief we all need right now. The latest staging of the classic by Louis Nowra, directed by Matt O’Connor, delivers a confident and engaging production that leans into both its humour and its underlying themes.
Set in 1971, the story follows a young university student tasked with directing Così fan tutte inside a mental asylum. What begins as a chaotic and unlikely premise quickly evolves into a thoughtful exploration of connection, identity and the blurred line between sanity and madness.
Mr O’Connor’s direction keeps the tone balanced, allowing the comedy to land naturally while still giving space for quieter, reflective moments. The result is a production that never feels heavy-handed, even as it touches on complex themes.
The ensemble cast is a clear strength. The weird and wonderful characters are memorably played, each bringing energy and individuality to the stage. It is in these performances that the production finds its rhythm, with several genuinely laugh-out-loud moments that keep the audience engaged throughout.
Attention to detail is evident in the production design. The costumes effectively capture the period, grounding the story in its early 1970s setting. This is further reinforced by a soundtrack featuring Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin, which complements the action and enhances the atmosphere without overwhelming it.
Beyond the humour, the play’s emotional core remains intact. As the central character begins to question his own assumptions, the audience is drawn into a story that ultimately reflects on love, friendship and the value of human connection over ideology.
This production of Cosi succeeds in doing what good theatre should: entertaining while prompting reflection. It is accessible, engaging and at times... quietly affecting.
Cosi is on at The Rondo Theatre from 1–9 May.
Book at www.bit.ly/4sQKfMq.
