Griffith Regional Theatre has added an extra performance of The Italian Divorce following strong demand from local audiences. With the 8pm show now sold out, a 3pm matinee has been announced for Saturday 31 October.
The comedy arrives in Griffith after sold-out seasons in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Perth. It has struck a chord with Italian-Australian audiences because it offers more than laughs. It is a love letter to the loud, loving and sometimes crazy households many of us grew up in.
The story follows Pino, whose wife kicks him out and forces him to move back in with Mum and Dad. There, Mamma interferes, Papa offers marriage advice and the entire neighbourhood knows his business. Audiences have described the result as “like watching your own family on stage.”
Beneath the noise, guilt and drama sits a deep affection for the parents and grandparents who came to Australia with little, worked tirelessly and built homes and communities while holding tightly to their traditions. For many, those memories grow more precious as that generation ages or is no longer with us.
“I created the show as a love letter to all the loud, loyal and beautifully chaotic families we grew up with,” said Frank Lotito, Director and Creator of The Italian Divorce.
“People laugh because they recognise their own families. But there’s also something very emotional about seeing that world brought back to life on stage.”
Producer Joe Accurso said that connection is one of the most powerful parts of the show.
“Our parents worked incredibly hard to build a life for us in Australia. We grew up surrounded by family, traditions, noise, arguments and an enormous amount of love. People come to laugh, but they also come to remember those who gave us the life we live today,” he said.
The cast features Frank Lotito (Big Mamma’s Boy), Steve Mouzakis (Prison Break, Clickbait), Louisa Mignone (Wentworth), Rosanna Morales (The Wedding), Davide Mollica and Jeanette Coppolino.
The Italian Divorce will perform at Griffith Regional Theatre on Saturday 31 October at 3pm and 8pm. Tickets to the 3pm show can be purchased from the Box Office, by calling 6962 8444 or visiting www.griffithregionaltheatre.com.au
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