One would not be out of place saying, WTF Rosie Roulette, writer and director of Pokélesque, performing 24-28 Feb 2026 at Ackland Street Theatre. What goes on in that fierce silly nerd head of yours?
Pokélesque tells the tale of a young trainer, wanting to be the best, beginning their pocket mon journey. Lucy May Knight’s star shines brightly as the young trainer. Their quick wit and improv reactions are hilariously fun. Adam White is equally matched as the Rival. There was no censoring of the rival’s name volunteered by the audience unlike the game. This was the beginning stages of the shocks and excitement ahead. Various stages of undress mean this is not a kid’s show.
We are cleverly welcomed, with the audience lights on, to three pink eared acapella singers, with words slightly changed for the Pocket monster theme, as people take their seats. As the lights dim and the story starts, we are taken on a weird psychedelic trip. The Professor, Darin Casler, cleverly comforts us for the road ahead. That road included fight scenes where we the audience clapped along and roared laughing.
There was MX Lucy Furr, whose stunning performance as Lickitung in hot pink tongue boa and pink sequined cap which made them a vagina in certain poses and strip teasing pocket mon. Rosie Roulette dazzled us with her beautiful version of “Never Enough”, what an exceptionally multi-talented weirdo. Sy Quinn’s performance in multiple roles with strange unrecognisable accents and many hat changes brought well deserved cheers and whoops from the audience every time they came on stage and played up directly with the audience.
Driving and begging for reactions seamlessly within the storyline. Rasputtin as Mr. Mime was a highlight. Their mimed strip tease was comically sensual and had audience members catching and returning their imaginary clothes with glee. The fabulous dancing Theresa Problem and Izzy Inyette play the villainous team Red Rockets. Were there a couple of sound issues and a troublesome microphone on opening night? Sure, but this talented crew added it to the interaction with us the audience. Improv and a non-existent fourth wall included us at every turn of this parody style play.
This all-inclusive, minus kids, show really is one for the pocket monster fans with many hidden and some not so hidden Pokemon puns. However, no prior knowledge is needed. Get along to the mischievous, totally camp, frivolous Pokélesque. Presented by GEEK OUT Nerdlesque. You will have a great time.
To book tickets to Pokélesque, please visit https://www.theatreworks.org.au/2026/pokelesque.
