SMOKO is a funny, sometimes brazen but always ocker queer comedy that lands some powerful moments. Brought by performers Jasmine Story and Claude Creighton, SMOKO makes creative use of space to create layers and build location. Not content with simple props, Jasmine and Claude employ the use of puppets throughout the show to elicit both roars of laughter and poignant silence from the audience.

The story meanders through space and time in the desert, creating a distinct feeling of being watched like a carcass being circled. This feeling of unease, both with the familiar feeling of not “belonging” in the desert, as well as the uncomfortable truth of what we do with things we don’t want, was expertly curated throughout the show.

We follow the relationship breakdown of main character Becky, who is struggling with commitment to her “emergency-contact-not-girlfriend”. Becky seems aimless, crushed by neuroses she can’t name and completely self-absorbed. In other words, she made a compelling and completely Australian character that you won’t be able to look away from. 

SMOKO, at times, rambles and is unsure of itself, but this lends itself to the charm of the show and blends with the theme. A great example of Australian indie theatre