5 Lesbians Eating A Quiche

It’s 1956 in small town America. The Cold War is becoming glacial but the Susan B. Anthony Society For The Sisters Of Gertrude Stein stoically decides they’ll still hold their annual quiche breakfast.  And then, as director Nathanael Cooper puts it: “A certain thing happens that leaves them all trapped in the bunker where they hold their meeting.”

5 Lesbians Eating A Quiche, written by Evan Linder and Andrew Hobgood, is a hilarious comedy based around five women in a single setting and relying on loud, colourful costumes and props and even louder and more colourful personalities and language.

“It’s just very funny, very naughty and very silly,” explained Cooper. Despite the title, Cooper insists it’s an inclusive show that everyone can enjoy. The set resembles a community hall and attendees are given name tags and assigned new female names (even the men) upon arrival so that the audience immediately feels like part of the show.

Cooper says his cast serves the hodge podge characters and sharp, witty script incredibly well.

Catherine Alcorn plays Lulie Stanwyck, President: “She’s formidable – very fierce and strong and has a fascinating character journey.”

Lauren O’Rourke is Wren Robin, Events Chairwoman/Deputy President. “Imagine her as one of those Stepford Wives, dosed up on drugs and with a permanent smile.”

Lauren Jackson plays Veronica “Vern” Schultz, Buildings and Grounds Chairman. “She’s the seductress of the group – very aware of her femininity.”

Ashlee Lollback is Ginny Cadbury, Secretary. An immigrant from the UK attending her first quiche breakfast. “She is very shy and mouselike but she also has an awakening during the performance.”

Bianca Zouppas is Dale Prist, Historian. “You think at the outset that she’s probably the dummy of the group, but what you learn is…how wise she is and what an interesting life she’s had.”

It’s hard to say more without giving too much away. Just come and take a bite. (RB)

Mar 21–26, varied performance times. Glen Street Theatre, cnr Glen St & Blackbutts Rd, Belrose. $31-$65. Tickets & info: www.glenstreet.com.au

BY RITA BRATOVICH