GET ready to giggle your way into summer – Ipswich Little Theatre is closing out the year with a riotous mix of wit, warmth and a touch of retirement-home rebellion in Waiting for God, opening November 19 at the Incinerator Theatre.
Based on the beloved BBC sitcom, the play turns the idea of “growing old gracefully” completely on its head.
It follows Diana Trent – a sharp-tongued, no-nonsense ex-photojournalist – and Tom, a charming ex-accountant with an unshakable zest for life. Together, the pair form an unlikely alliance inside Bayview Retirement Village, where the tea might be weak, but the comebacks are anything but.
“It’s about challenging the notion that older people should just sit quietly and behave,” said director Chris Austin Greenhill.
“Audiences can expect to see a few of our elder members of society being a little bit naughty – really shaking things up and proving age doesn’t mean you lose your spark.”
Greenhill said the show captured the very best of British humour – sharp, self-aware, and full of heart.
“There’ll be plenty of laughter, witty banter and brilliant chemistry between the characters – especially from our Diana Trent, who’s a bit of a battle axe, but an absolutely lovable one,” he said.
But for Greenhill, Waiting for God is more than just a comedy. It’s a tribute.
Back in 2019, the same play was set to take the stage under the direction of the late Doug Moses, one of Ipswich Little Theatre’s most respected directors.
The cast had reached final dress rehearsal when Covid shut down theatres around the world – and Waiting for God never opened.
“Doug was one of my mentors,” Greenhill said.
“Reviving this play feels like finishing something he started.
“It’s a passion project – and it’s wonderful to finally bring it to life with such an amazing cast.”
The production promises audiences a blend of heartfelt moments, sharp humour and reflections on ageing, friendship and freedom – proving that life doesn’t slow down in the later years, it just gets funnier.
Tickets are already selling fast, with an extra matinee added for Saturday, December 6.
Performances run November 21-23, 28-29 and December 5-6
Tickets are available via ilt.org.au or from the Ipswich Visitor Information Centre (3281 0555).
