State Theatre Company South Australia’s production, directed by Stephen Nicolazzo and adapted for the stage by Vidya Rajan, is a deftly crafted love letter to a generation. It’s loud and lyrical, intimate and energetic, and brimming with the complexity that made the original story so enduring.

At the heart of the show is Chanella Macri, who delivers a bold and emotionally nuanced performance as Josie. She brings intelligence and charm to the role, walking the tightrope between youthful defiance and aching vulnerability with confidence and depth.

But it’s Lucia Mastrantone who is the undeniable standout. As Josie’s mother, Christina, she offers a performance that is both grounded and luminous. Her comedic timing is razor-sharp, yet she manages to infuse every line with emotional weight, painting a portrait of a woman shaped by sacrifice, strength, and quiet determination. Her presence on stage elevates every scene she’s in.

The ensemble cast moves fluidly through a variety of roles, with Jennifer Vuletic’s portrayal of Nonna Katia providing some of the show’s most poignant and tender moments. The minimalist set design—cleverly built around milk crates and chairs—allows the storytelling and character work to shine.

This production captures the soul of Looking for Alibrandi: the tangled beauty of family, identity, and growing up between cultures. For those of us who lived through Josie’s story the first time, it’s a rich and rewarding revisit. And for a new generation, it’s a powerful introduction to one of Australia’s most treasured narratives.

Images: Matt Byrne.

Looking for Alibrandi runs at the Dunstan Playhouse until 31 May. Get tickets here.

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