From the Drama Department

Looking For Alibrandi – A Timely Play for Today’s Conversation on Immigration and Culture

In a moment when Australia and many countries are reflecting deeply on immigration and its many challenges, it feels especially meaningful that this play is taking the stage in Adelaide. Through the eyes of 17-year-old Josie Alibrandi, it gently yet powerfully explores the tensions and beauty of culture clashes, racism, and the blending of traditions and values—with humour, empathy, and insight.

Looking for Alibrandi is thoughtful and moving production feels incredibly timely. It offers unforgettable moments, like the hauntingly beautiful lament sung by Josie’s nonna after John’s funeral, and a quiet, intimate scene where she stirs a large pot of tomatoes, immersed in her memories. At its heart, the play is about discovery, respect, and acceptance—universal themes that resonate deeply in our multicultural society and with our SAC Mercy values.

Mr Tom Coultas
Drama Coordinator

Students commented:

“I really liked that they got into their characters so much, really played them well. The people that had to multiple roles throughout were really talented and it remidded me of the film version very much.”  Alyssa, Year 10 Student

“I thought the play was very polished and everyone really enjoyed the production. Having read the biook and seen the film many times, I thought it told the story really well and the acting was very entertaining!” Grace, Year 10 Student

“I really loved play looking For Alibrandi, especially all of the actors they did an amazing job playing multiple characters which can be very hard sometimes but I thought that a lot of them were very inspirational particularly ‘Ash’ who played John and Ivy.  Both those characters were polar opposite genders but the way that she acted as those characters just inspirational.” Sophie, Year 10 Student

“I really liked how it was kind of different to the book in the movie how they like changed it up a bit to match the cast. I especially liked that they spoke in Italian some of the time as I haven’t seen that much in plays: speaking in Italian then immediately going back to  English.  I thought it was kind of like a ‘real’ bi-lingual family on-stage.” Amy, Year 10 Student

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