Presented by Chookas Entertainment & Insight Acting is undoubtedly a ‘one of a kind’ dark comedy performance. The production was expertly directed by Tim Kemp and produced by Jodie Miller. “The Goat, or Who is Sylvia?” was written by Edward Albee and was the Winner of the 2002 Tony Award for Best Play.
The performance was held at the Civic Playhouse which naturally lends itself to an intimate environment for audience participation and tonight’s performance definitely had the audience engaged, receptive and most definitely gobsmacked.
The cast of four actors displayed utmost skill and seasoned professionalism. They all shone in their own right portraying great conviction and dedication to their characters.
Tony Jozef played the lead role of Martin who has unquestionably become deranged in his newfound sexual desires. Martin is at the peak of an existential crisis as he endeavours to explain his unimaginable love affair between himself and his lover Sylvia – a goat! His unfathomable lust for Sylvia is definitely very unsettling. Tony’s ability to create empathy for his character’s grave misgivings is indeed commendable.



Joel Stibbard gave a solid performance as Ross, the long time best friend of Martin. He portrayed great comradery between himself and Martin and delivered the perfect amount of flair for a TV presenter.
Seventeen year old Billy is played by Clio Vellis who gave a wonderful rendition of a hormonal, confused teenager. Billy is struggling to comprehend newly learnt tragic information regarding his father which leaves him utterly perturbed.
Angela Robertson delivered first class acting in her role as Stevie, the loyal and dutiful wife of Martin. Angela showed unwavering commitment to her role and achieved great audience connection and sympathy to her character.
The lighting by Riordan Munnoch was simple, effective and poignant. The blackouts at the end of each scene were powerful and equally notable was the utilisation of subtle coloured lighting techniques to enhance and mirror the dramatic moments being portrayed on stage.
“The Goat, or Who is Sylvia?” is recommended for mature audiences and for theatre goers who have an appreciation for morbid humour.
It is a deeply disturbing, highly unconventional and controversial play. It explores taboo topics and themes of bestiality and incest that will definitely leave the audiences shocked, perhaps disgusted and definitely talking about it for some time.