The Play That Goes Wrong opened to a standing ovation at Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre. The British farce is an absolute romp. It’s presented under the guise of the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society’s opening night of a classic murder mystery whodunnit, The Murder at Haversham Manor. However, the ‘amateur’ actors’ carefully rehearsed drama unravels, to highly comedic effect. Ingenious mayhem escalates throughout the performance as the actors and stage crew try to hold the plot together whilst everything falls apart around them, literally. Forgotten lines, missed cues, and a collapsing set had the audience in stitches throughout the play and jumping to their feet at the end of the performance.
Silly physical comedy abounds, yet the production is clever and expertly executed. The talented Nigel Hook designed the original set, to such effect it essentially serves as another character in the production. Plus the fabulous ensemble cast seem to genuinely be having fun on stage.
If you’re a fan of Mr. Bean, John Cleese, or Monty Python this show is for you. Anyone who’s experienced amateur theatre, either from the wings or as a reluctant audience member, owes it to themselves to see The Play That Goes Wrong. 
The show originated in a tiny Islington pub, then went on to play on London’s West End and Broadway, winning a slew of awards along the way. It’s also spawned spin-offs including Peter Pan Goes Wrong and A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong.
It’s now played on the West End for ten years and claims the title of ‘the longest running comedy in London.’ Whilst much of the slapstick comedy is timeless, my one quibble was the trope of using a woman stripped to her underwear for comedic effect. Which doesn’t hold up as well as a punchline in 2025. That said, the show’s broad appeal was evident on opening night. At intermission my plus one and I struck up a conversation with a couple visiting from Seattle, whilst next to us two tweens enthusiastically engaged one of the actors roaming the lobby in character.
I recommend arriving early, as the show starts before the curtain rises. I also recommend booking tickets post-haste. The Play That Goes Wrong is on a whirlwind tour of Australia/NZ and only plays in Melbourne until the end of the month.
– Jenny
Jenny Schmidt is an event adventurer. When she’s not attending live shows, you can find her sampling the latest craft beer or sipping a creative cocktail.
The Play That Goes Wrong performs in Melbourne through 28 September at the Athenaeum Theatre 188 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Then tours to Port Macquarie, Canberra, and Perth. Run time approximately 2 hours long, including a 20-minute interval. Book tickets now.
