The Platypus

Multiple genres, two actors, one black comedy about the end of a relationship.

And possibly a platypus.

The Platypus is a strange creature. It’s composed of odds and ends, as though Evolution got tired one afternoon and stopped paying attention to what it was doing. It seems wrong. Strangely put together. A curiosity.

Just like this play.

A play about Richard and Jessica and the messy end of their relationship

Written and directed by acclaimed actor Francis Greenslade (Shaun Micallef’s Mad as Hell, Winners and Losers) and performed by John Leary (The Good Place, Glitch, The Letdown, Upper Middle Bogan) and Rebecca Bower (The Spooky Files, Offspring, Wentworth), The Platypus is a genre-busting delight – an outrageously clever, wildly entertaining play about theatre, relationships and the roles we all play.

The Platypus premiered at TheatreWorks in Melbourne in 2024 and will next be seen at Holden Street Theatres as part of the 2025 Adelaide Fringe. Tickets are on sale soon!

This bold mix of genres delivers a witty, delightful, entertaining evening. Bower and Leary are wonderful. (Stage Whispers)

The Platypus skilfully balances drama and comedy…masterfully handled by (its) seasoned performers. (ArtsHub)

Written and directed by Francis Greenslade
Performed by John Leary and Rebecca Bower
Set and Costume Design by Sarah Tulloch
Lighting design Clare Springett
Sound design by David Franzke
Choreography: Kate Denborough