Brink Productions’ highly anticipated theatrical production of Melina Marchetta’s beloved novel ‘Looking for Alibrandi’, enthralled audiences at the Riverside Theatres from June 11-15, 2025. The most recent adaptation of ‘Looking for Alibrandi’ is the outcome of a dynamic collaboration between director Stephen Nicollazzo and award-winning novelist Vidya Rajan.
Since publication in 1992, Marchetta’s novel ‘Looking for Alibrandi’ has established itself as a cultural touchstone and a key piece of Australian literature. Its ongoing popularity prompted a successful filmic adaptation in 2000, solidifying its place in public consciousness. This beloved story has now transitioned to the stage for a theatrical interpretation still relevant to today’s audiences.
The story revolves around Josephine Alibrandi (Josie), an intelligent third-generation Italian Australian teen navigating the challenges in her senior of high school.
Josie contends with family baggage and the conflicting demands of her cultural heritage, whilst trying to find her own identity. As noted by various literary critics, Marchetta’s novel is characterised by its honest and empowering portrayal of Mediterranean culture within the Australian milieu of the 1990s. Fearlessly confronting the unstated realities of institutionalised racism from the migrant’s viewpoint, it is a tale ever reaching the hearts of young Australians.
Nicolazzo’s directional vision is described by Barry Lenny in Broadway World as ‘bold’ and ‘stylised’. The production’s use of Italian passata-making process as a backdrop for the plot is a notable feature. This tradition, firmly ingrained in Italian society, serves as a powerful emblem expressing both the warmth and beauty of family traditions, and the restrictions presented in the face of changing circumstances. Daniel Nixon’s elaborate sound design complements the visual elements of the play, weaving together Italian musical styles to enhance the emotional depth and cultural richness.
The outstanding ensemble brought this production to life with Blue Mountains actor Chanella Macri starring as Josie, Jennifer Vuketic portraying Nonna Katia and Lucia Mastrantone as Josie’s mother. Macri’s portrayal of Josie has received high praise, with reviewer Reuben Liversidge describing it as a ‘star-making performance’, accurately depicting the character’s wit and unyielding tenacity.
Vuletic’s performance as Nonna Katia captures the multifaceted nature of the character at the centre of the play’s intergenerational themes. Macri’s Samoan-Italian heritage and Mastrantonio’s double casting for the roles of Christina and Sera highlighted an interesting and complex bond between Josie and her mother.
Street banner outside the venue. Photo by Sana Singh, 2025.
The story focuses on issues such as multiculturalism, family relationships, and the journey of self-discovery. Additionally, it examines the intricate aspects of the Italian Australian experience, highlighting traditional values while addressing underlying racism. Complicated relationships between the three generations of Alibrandi women forms the emotional core of the play. It takes a subtle approach to class issues and social status, particularly concerning Josie’s scholarship to a private Catholic school. The play insightfully negotiates cross-generational cultural differences by exploring relationships in a migrant family and the deeper experiences of immigrants.
Venue of the play, Church Street. Photo by Sana Singh, 2025.
Riverside Theatre hosted the production, the centre of a multi-venue performance arts in Parramatta. Riverside Theatre emphasises diversity and accessibility through wheelchair access, Companion Card acceptance and an accessible hearing system. Ticket costs start at $49 for Riverside Theatre members and $75 for general admission. Showings occur both in the mornings and evenings to suit audiences.
The Guardian reviewer Giselle Au-Nhien Nguyen emphasises the play’s focus on the lead female characters; “Rajan’s play probes deeply into the generational triptych at the centre: three women, three lives, one heartbeat.”
Moreover, as reported by Vidya Rajan, director Stephen Nicolazzo acknowledged his personal connection to the original story, stating: “Looking for Alibrandi’ has always compelled me because it spoke directly to the conflict I experienced socially and internally.”
In this new adaptation, the story is complemented by the team’s creative talent and dedication, showcasing the cherished essence of this story. In doing so, it revamps the multiculturalism discussion while helping young people’s self-discovery journey.
