A musical comedy of perils from the insurgent abyss (dark, but with live bingo!)
By Drew Fairley
As Luck Would Have It begins as a piece of stand-up comedy observing the clash between land logic and cruise ship logic, but slides into an absurdist story of life and death, as one man navigates a perilous psychological journey accompanied only by the moon, an endless ocean, and his own demons.
On a mild day in March, a broken showman steps aboard a luxury cruise ship. For work. Just a little gig to pay the bills, maybe decompress a little, dust off his Hawaiian shirts, cuddle a few martinis, that kind of thing. The next day, a worldwide pandemic is declared. The ship is exiled into the middle of the Pacific Ocean with nothing but empty ballrooms for him to crack his jokes in. Trapped on the empty liner, he longs to escape, but the ocean has other plans…
Commissioned by Merrigong, As Luck Would Have It is inspired by playwright and actor Drew Fairley’s experiences being marooned on a cruise ship during the early months of the pandemic. It’s the odyssey of a man drumming up mirth while he grips onto the edge of a funnel that threatens to plunge him into the abyss. With songs!
In turns hilarious and devastating, this extraordinary new work leans into the absurdity of survival whilst sliding to the edge of reason.
Book this show as part of a Merrigong Season Ticket
You can include this show as part of a 2022 Season Ticket. Choose 5 shows from only $290 and you’ll also get a range of extra perks, like free ticket exchanges and discounts at The Social café & bar. Read more and book here.
Reviews
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Fairely's videos attracted viewers from across the world. His sardonic humor and enthusiasm were the recipe for a hit.
- CNN - for #actualcabinactualfever
Cast & Creatives
| Director | Leland Kean |
| Production Designer | Katja Handt |
| Composer | Drew Fairley |
| Musical Director | Daryl Wallis |
| Cast includes | Drew Fairley |
| Photo by | Paul Henderson-Kelly |
Pre-show Dining Packages
$28 Pre-Show Dining Packages
Pre-book a meal and drink at The Social when you book your tickets!
For only $28pp. Our great value Pre-Show Dining Packages feature warm table bread, a selection from our delicious show time à la carte options served with a house drink of your choice. Menus are updated regularly and include at least one vegetarian and one gluten-free option. Open weekdays and showtime.
Table bookings are required. 02 4224 5932
Click here for full terms and conditions.
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We are operating in accordance with NSW Health rules and guidelines for entertainment venues. When you visit, it is really important that you are feeling well and prepared to stick to the safety practices of our venues. Face masks, digital check-ins and proof of vaccination are currently mandatory for all visitors. (This also includes everyone working on site.) For detailed information and FAQs, please click here.
