Meet Ali Anderson. She is an intelligent, middle-aged woman living the lesbian dream. Or is she? Presented as part of Midsumma Festival, The MILF and the Mistress is a one-woman show examining what happens when happily ever after occurs and why it has to begin in the first place. Why can't the excitement and discovery of life continue? And why must not only middle-aged women, and to be more specific, middle-aged lesbian women, disappear as they become older?
Jane Montgomery Griffiths' script brings an evocative description of Ali's life with humour and sincerity. The audience is given great insight into the mind of this woman and her unique circumstances, but at the same time, Griffiths writes such a relatable story where anyone who has ever felt like life was passing them by or searching for that spark in life, can absolutely connect with and put themselves in Ali's shoes.
Jennifer Vuletic achieves a completely captivating performance as Ali, and as the supporting characters that we meet along the way. Her ability to channel Ali's frustrations and disappointment with what her life has become and the exhilaration of realising that there's more to discover is perfectly balanced. Her delivery of the text conveys Alis changing mood and emotions, her confidence, anxieties and uncertainties.
The set design by Dianne Toulson, who also serves as director, is minimal but effective in that it places all of our attention on Ali and watching her story unfold. When we do delve into the sexual moments of the show, Vuletic stands behind a curtain made from plastic strips. The lighting and the curtain may distort our view, but it highlights the divide between her more socially acceptable public life and the new journey she is going on.
At the start of the show, our protagonist tells us there is no magic, but there is definitely magic with this production, both on and off the stage. Stories about older lesbian experiences are rarely seen on the stage, but with this accomplished and intelligent production of The MILF and the Mistress, here is hoping this is only the beginning.
Show Details
Venue: Theatre Works Explosives Factory, 67 Inkerman St, St. Kilda
Season: until11 February | Mon - Sat 8pm, Sat 2pm
Duration: 75 minutes
Tickets: $35 Full | $30 Concession
Bookings: Midsumma Festival
Image Credit: Andrew Bott
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