First Date - Koorliny Arts Centre

Reviewed by Kate O'Sullivan

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Koorliny Arts Centre’s First Date is a bright, lively production brimming with fun and commitment from its ensemble cast. Under Chloe Palliser’s direction, the performers clearly relish the material, leaning into the awkward charm of a blind date with playful energy and well-defined characterisation. Each member of the cast drew a clear distinction between roles, making the ensemble scenes particularly engaging, and the inventive staging - integrating the live band as restaurant “staff”- added a fresh and immersive quality.

The creative use of space gave the production real vibrancy, with music and action flowing through the space. Playful touches in the costuming, such as clever headband details, and well-considered lighting further enhanced the atmosphere. The cast’s enthusiasm was infectious, making the show an enjoyable night out that left the audience smiling.

Some practical challenges did creep in. The inventive placement of the band, while visually interesting, created moments of crowding around the raised central space and bar. It also meant actors often had to cross centre stage when moving between levels, distracting from the main action taking place. Sightlines were another issue, with the flat audience seating making it tricky to catch all of the ensemble’s strong work in the downstage corners.

The greatest hurdle of the evening was sound balance. Despite the cast’s clear diction and projection, the band frequently overpowered the vocals, particularly the drums in the opening number. This meant much of the lyrical wit- a highlight of First Date - was difficult to catch, even from the acoustic centre of the venue.

Some elements of the script itself feel a little dated in 2025. The setup of a blind date organised by friends feels less familiar to modern audiences than an online meeting, and the “Friend Zone” section, though well performed by Matt Walford, carries connotations that no longer land as they once did. Walford’s strong vocals were undeniable, though a subtler expression of frustration rather than anger might have kept his character more sympathetic, making the later resolution more satisfying.

Even with these challenges, what stands out most is the cast’s unity and enjoyment of the process. The performers’ commitment and the playful integration of music and character ensured an engaging, entertaining night. Koorliny’s First Date may not be perfect, but it shines with creativity, warmth, and a whole lot of heart.

Reviewer Note: Kate has previously worked with members of this cast and crew - most recently at Roleystone Theatre. Tickets for this review were provided by the theatre company.