She Kills Monsters

One of the most frequently performed plays in the United States, Darlington Theatre Players’ production of She Kills Monsters appears to be a Western Australian premiere. Cleverly directed and nicely performed, this was a great way to kick off 2025 at Marloo.

‘Ordinary’ Agnes Evans delves into the world of Dungeons and Dragons, in an attempt to understand her late sister. A lovely blend of reality and fantasy She Kills Monsters, was a joy for Role Players, but very accessible for everyone.

A rock face come cave-like set gave a fantasy feel, which intensified throughout the show with the appearance of monsters, from the mind of director Connie Wetherilt and realised by set designer and monster creator (and Connie’s father) Gary Wetherilt. It was very much a family project with mum Yvette Drager-Wetherilt creating the superb makeup and wigs appearing throughout the show. There was some great magic created by this team, and the appearance of dragons towards the end of the year was a rare magic moment that elicited an audible gasp from the crowd.

Central character Agnes was played with commitment and depth by Candice Preston, in an excellent lead performance. Her sister Tilly, who despite being dead is the other major role, was played with intelligence by Sophie Boyland - a believable sisterhood.

Luka Daniel shines as Chuck, in perhaps my favourite of his performances to date, despite the fact that the role is clearly written for physically larger actor. Andre Victor delivers a beautiful performance as Agnes’ fiancée Miles, simply very natural and honest, while Helen Kerr is delightful as best fiend Vera.

The ‘kids’ are all believable as teenagers, with strong characterisations. Verity Lux brings power to Lilith Morningstar (and is sweet as Lilith’s ‘real life’ alter ego). Mary Carter’s unemotional elf charms throughout - and could not be more different to her most recent on-stage role. Sean Wcislo is great fun as Orcus, while Kailem Mollard is a very capable narrator. Harrison Ricci stepped onto the stage at hours’ notice to play Steve for an ill Adam Giltrow, playing the role with panache.

Villains of the show are ‘Evil Gabbi’ and “Evil Tina’, played with relish by Sophie David and Ebony Uetake, showing swagger and bite.

Costumes by Merri Ford were fun and revealing (of character), and lighting design by Shelly Miller was bold and supportive.

Visually exciting, with a fresh and different vibe, this was a very strong show that deserved its positive buzz.

Kimberley Shaw