The Removalists review

It’s been 54 years since David Williamson’s The Removalists premiered at La Mama, a gritty, darkly humorous examination of domestic violence and abuse of power. Fast forward to 2025, and the Melbourne Theatre Company’s production proves the play still packs a punch, delivering a searing exploration of violence against women and systemic corruption.

The narrative follows a tense encounter between two police officers, the corrupt, manipulative Sergeant Simmonds (Steve Mouzakis) and the naive rookie Constable Ross (William McKenna), who are called to assist Fiona (Eloise Mignon) in leaving her abusive husband, Kenny (Michael Whalley). What begins as a routine removal spirals into a savage climax, revealing the casual cruelty of law enforcement and the failures of authority. As the violence escalates, Constable Ross is pulled into Sergeant Simmonds' toxic influence, blurring the lines of justice and brutality.

The six actors demonstrate formidable skills in bringing their characters to life. Jessica Clarke stands out as Kate, Fiona’s outspoken and confident sister, showing how despite her assertiveness and willingness to stand up for herself and Fiona, Kate ultimately has little control over the events that unfold. Mouzakis and McKenna provide a striking contrast in their portrayals, with their evolving relationship and power struggle throughout these 24 hours offering a fascinating look at the dynamic between the Sergeant and the Constable.

Under the direction of Anne-Louise Sarks, the ensemble give powerful and gripping performances, capturing the emotional and physical turmoil of the story. Fight Director Nigel Poulton elicits vicious violence from Mouzakis, McKenna, and Whalley, with the three appearing to truly let loose as their characters. From an audience perspective, the physicality is so raw and intense that it feels as though serious damage could be a moment away.

Dale Ferguson’s set design instantly transports us to the 1970s, with bulky office furniture, typewriters, and cabinets that are undoubtedly overflowing with paperwork inside the police station. The transition from station to Fiona and Kenny’s home is a clever, collaborative effort, with both cast and crew actively involved in the scene change. Mignon’s Fiona is also seen receiving fresh bruises from the make-up artist, further evidence of her husband’s aggression. Matilda Woodroofe’s costumes reinforce the era, from Kate’s flowing dresses to Fiona’s flared jeans and Kenny’s singlet and stubbies. While the production makes it very clear it is rooted in the ’70s, the themes of domestic violence and police abuse are as disturbingly relevant as ever.

Over fifty years since its premiere, The Removalists remains a confronting and necessary piece of theatre. MTC's staging doesn’t just revisit Williamson’s play, but it amplifies its impact, reminding us that the cycles of assault and abuse of authority it exposes are far from over. The unique on-stage seating makes the experience even more unflinching and unsettling, forcing the audience to sit with all its violence and questioning how much has really changed.

SHOW DETAILS

Venue: Southbank Theatre, 140 Southbank Blvd, Southbank
Season: until 17 April | Mon - Tues 6:30pm, Wed - Sat 7:30pm
Duration:
 120 minutes
Tickets: $67 - $74
Bookings: Melbourne Theatre Company

Images credit: Pia Johnson