PICTURES OF BRIGHT LIGHTS

A mother and daughter live in a dark cycle of homework and flowers and cake baking. Strangled by the constrictions of her mother, the young daughter retreats into fantasies about short stories, carnivals and bright lights. When a mysterious visitor arrives, played energetically by Kurt Phelan, the daughter is caught between her colourful imagination and the darkness of her family life. Veteran Caroline Craig is deliciously Stepford as the mother, but the real scene-stealer is Home and Away siren Eryn-Jean Norvill who is completely captivating as her young daughter. Sydney writer Maree Freeman’s script is dark yet playful as the town’s secrets come to the surface. Directed by Stephen Nicolazzo, this is the newest production from Little Ones Theatre company, which focuses on new Australian writing and this is an impressive example of why. After years residing at the Old Fitzroy Theatre, this is your chance to see the Tamarama Rock Surfers in their new home at Bondi Pavilion. It may not have the laksa, but the views might just make up for it.

Until May 28, Bondi Pavilion, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Bondi Beach, $25-33, rocksurfers.org