THE MERGER

A longstanding footy club in a rural Victorian town is about to fold due to a lack of players. That is until arts-loving, lefty coach Troy Harrington comes up with an unorthodox idea that is sure to cause a stir – recruit asylum seekers. This one-hander is written and performed by comic star Damian Callinan and was nominated for a Barry Award at this year’s International Comedy Festival in Melbourne.

The one-hour play is laugh out loud funny until your abs hurt and your jaw is stiff. It’s full of AFL in-jokes and sure to be a football fan’s wet dream but your average arty fart is going to have a ball too. Callinan switches effortlessly between eight characters including an elderly bogan grump; an orphaned Aussie boy; and an endearing footy-obsessed Afghani refugee, while incorporating improvisation with audience members that will leave you in stitches. This is feel-good escapism at its best with an important message about not judging a book (or potential footy player) by its cover. (ES)

Until Sep 29, Seymour Centre, cnr City Rd & Cleveland St, Chippendale, $15-30, 9351 7940, seymourcentre.com