Set in a small outdoor space, Hannah Maxwell is larger than life as she takes you through her traumatic, amusing, and relatable mis/adventures with her thespian theatre family. Up close and personal with Hannah means seeing every minute facial change, being meditated through set changes, and if you’re lucky, shoes will exit stage left right by your head (no offence taken, it was a terrific throw).
Hannah sheds a lighthearted approach to her coming out story to share with her audience. Connecting with everyone in the audience as she regales us with her tale set in the year 2010, it feels less of a theatre show and more of a gossip session with your friend. You will find yourself leaning forward in your seat to listen more closely, not because of how she is speaking, but because you want to hear what she has to say next. The story isn’t difficult to follow, but it’s very real, and you won’t want to miss a single word or dance move.
With minimal lighting that was outshone by the setting sun, a stage floor of bricks, props that have been with Hannah for years, the performance gives a raw, homey feel … but with the masterful story manipulation of a seasoned thespian who isn’t afraid of having people staring at her without the safety net of the curtains. “I, AmDram” doesn’t need to indulge in complex sets and overly complicated props. There is a small TV and sound system to add layers of backstory, depth, and extra sounds effects while Hannah bounces around the stage; they only deter from the show when the remote decides it doesn’t want to work, but Hannah takes it all in her stride and makes it feel a part of the show. Hannah is captivating as she dances you through her story in a whirlwind of songs, nostalgia, and that one song she can play on the piano with two hands.
Hannah will encourage you to talk back and sing along, and if you’re very lucky, you may even get to assist with holding props. Just as you think you know where the story is going, Hannah takes a breath and throws a new obstacle or belts a musical number. Expect the unexpected, be prepared to ball change and laugh your way through.
Theatre kids, anyone who’s come out of the closet, and everyone in between should have “I, AmDram” on their 2026 Adelaide Fringe to-watch list, and be prepared to laugh, sing, tap your feet, and participate.
To book tickets to I, AmDram, please visit https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/hannah-maxwell-i-amdram-af2026.
Photographer: Daisy King, David Schwab
