THE ALMIGHTY SOMETIMES (PLAY)

 

Written by Kendall Feaver

Directed by Lachlan Houen

Off the Ledge Theatre and Q The Locals production

Q Theatre, Queanbeyan to 22 November

 

Reviewed by Len Power 19 November 2025

 

Being an adolescent is hard enough without also dealing with a cocktail of pills that were prescribed to treat a severe childhood mental illness. Would life be better and maybe more exciting and fulfilling without the medication?

That is the question that eighteen year old Anna is grappling with in the play by Australian playwright, Kendall Feaver. This award-winning play looks at this young woman’s struggle to find the true identity which her medication may be masking. The effect on her, and those around her, raises serious issues in this thought-provoking play.

Winsome Ogilvie as Anna

Winsome Ogilvie gives a fine performance in the central and demanding role of Anna. The highs and lows of her character’s struggle are carefully judged and always believable. It’s a compelling and memorable study of a young woman trying to find herself.

Elaine Noon as Renee, the mother

Elaine Noon is very effective as the protective mother, Renee, who has difficulty in relating to her daughter as an adult. Steph Roberts gives a nicely edgy performance of Anna’s long-term doctor who keeps her distance professionally. As Anna’s tentative boyfriend, Robert Kjellgren deftly plays the confusion of youth as well someone trying to understand and deal with Anna’s behaviour.

Director, Lachlan Houen has obtained fine, in-depth performances from his cast in this highly emotional drama. It is thoughtfully staged and well-paced. The set by Caitlin Baker simply but effectively fills the large stage at the Q Theatre and her costumes for the cast have been well-chosen.

This is a good production of a compelling play. It’s confronting and makes you think but it’s also a play with humour, heart and a sense of optimism.

 

Photos by PHOTOX

Len Power's reviews are also broadcast on Artsound FM 92.7 in the ‘Arts Cafe’ and ‘Arts About’ programs.