THE ROOMMATE explores friendship, reinvention and unexpected connection at Ensemble Theatre this winter.
THE ROOMMATE is a sharp, darkly funny and unexpectedly moving theatre production that explores friendship, reinvention and the courage it takes to embrace change. Watching this story unfold, I was drawn into the unlikely connection between two women whose lives could not appear more different. Sharon’s carefully controlled world is disrupted when Robyn enters her home, bringing secrets, confidence and a completely new perspective. Through clever writing, compelling performances and moments of genuine vulnerability, THE ROOMMATE balances humour with deeper questions about identity, loneliness and personal freedom. The chemistry between the two leads creates a captivating experience, taking the audience on an emotional journey filled with surprises and heartfelt revelations. With its clever dialogue and powerful themes, THE ROOMMATE reminds us that transformation can begin at any age, and sometimes the biggest changes happen when we allow someone new through the door.
A Door Opens To Change
Walking into the theatre for THE ROOMMATE, I was immediately intrigued by the idea of a dark comedy exploring two women from completely different worlds. In Jen Silverman’s Australian premiere production, we are introduced to Sharon, a recently divorced Iowa woman whose predictable life is turned upside down when she welcomes Robyn, a mysterious and outspoken housemate from the Bronx.
What begins as a practical arrangement quickly becomes something much deeper, as both women challenge each other’s ideas of identity, independence and what it means to truly start over.
Directed by Lee Lewis, THE ROOMMATE takes audiences on a journey that is funny, surprising and often deeply relatable. Beneath the sharp humour lies a thoughtful exploration of loneliness, connection and the bravery required to reinvent yourself.
Performances: A Brilliant Clash Of Personalities
The strength of THE ROOMMATE lies in the powerful performances of Lucy Bell and Belinda Bromilow, who bring two very different characters to life with incredible chemistry.
Lucy Bell’s Sharon is initially presented as reserved, cautious and someone who has spent years following the rules. Her transformation throughout the story is fascinating to witness, as small moments of curiosity slowly develop into a desire to reclaim control over her own life.
Belinda Bromilow’s Robyn brings a completely different energy to the stage. Confident, mysterious and unpredictable, she disrupts Sharon’s carefully ordered world while carrying her own hidden struggles.
Together, the pair create a dynamic relationship filled with humour, tension and unexpected tenderness. Their performances capture the messy reality of human connection — the way people can frustrate us, challenge us and ultimately help us discover parts of ourselves we didn’t know existed.
Writing & Direction: Dark Comedy With Heart
Jen Silverman’s writing is clever, fast-paced and layered with moments that shift between hilarious and deeply emotional. The humour never feels forced; instead, it grows naturally from the characters, their differences and the uncomfortable situations they find themselves navigating.
Lee Lewis’ direction allows the story to breathe, balancing comedic timing with the more serious themes underneath. The production explores big questions about ageing, relationships, independence and the desire to feel seen.
What makes THE ROOMMATE so engaging is that it doesn’t offer simple answers. Both Sharon and Robyn are flawed, complicated and constantly evolving. The audience is invited to question assumptions about who people are and who they have the potential to become.
Production & Audience Experience: Simple, Effective Storytelling
The design elements of THE ROOMMATE support the intimacy of the story beautifully. Simone Romaniuk’s set and costume design creates a believable environment that reflects Sharon’s world while allowing room for transformation.
Matt Cox’s lighting design and Madeleine Picard’s sound design enhance the mood, shifting seamlessly between moments of comedy, tension and reflection.
At 95 minutes with no interval, the production moves with purpose, keeping audiences engaged from beginning to end. The theatre experience feels personal, almost as if we are invited into Sharon and Robyn’s home to witness conversations that are both private and universal.
THE ROOMMATE is a reminder that change can arrive unexpectedly — and sometimes the person who challenges us most is the person who helps us grow.
Event Details
Event Title: THE ROOMMATE
Event Date: 19 June 2026 – 25 July 2026
Event Time: Various session times
Event Location: Theatre venue – Ensemble Theatre, Kirribilli, Sydney
Future Show Dates: Running until 25 July 2026
Review and Photos by: Ellie Seymour