The Government Inspector – Drama Production

This Friday and Saturday, the GMCPA stage will be transformed into a satirical and lively portrayal of bureaucracy, greed, and mistaken identity as Year 7-9 students present Nikolai Gogol’s classic farce, The Government Inspector. First performed in 1836, this play’s sharp humour and timeless critique of human folly will be brought to life by our talented students as they dive into the absurd world of corrupt officials and unwitting conspirators.

After seven weeks of dedicated rehearsals, including sessions during the October holidays, the cast is fully immersed in the chaotic and paranoid atmosphere of a small town, where news of a government inspector’s visit sends the local officials into a panic. The students have dived into the absurdity of their characters, honing Gogol’s sharp wit and larger-than-life humour.

At the heart of the production is the hilariously oblivious Khlestakov, the mistaken inspector, performed with flair by Grace McSweeney and her much-put-upon servant, performed candidly by Orla Cottrell. Their comedic timing and ability to balance arrogance with clueless charm is brilliantly captivating at every turn.

Katerina Economou, Isabelle Port, and Lara Waterhouse are so convincing as the scheming mayor, his suspicious wife, and their romantically delusional daughter that you’ll almost forget they’re not a real family. Their chemistry and impeccable comedic timing bring an authentic humour to the stage, adding to the delightful chaos of the production.

Isabella Benjamin, Emily Chiang, Laranya Nanthakumaran, Annabel Taylor, and Chloe Wang round out the town’s hilariously corrupt officials, their interactions full of frantic energy and razor-sharp exchanges. Jessica Allman and Zoe Bloom deliver standout moments with their sharp comic instincts, while the ensemble, including Ava Christofides, Amber Lewis, Grace Neal, Ruby Shepherd-Smith, and Leura Sayers, capture the contrasting dynamics of power and subservience with wit and precision.

It’s been a rewarding process working alongside these students, who have thrown themselves into this farcical world with commitment and creativity. Their performances promise not only laughs but also moments that remind us why Gogol’s critique of human nature remains so relevant. This is a performance that promises sharp wit, chaotic humour, and plenty of unexpected moments—definitely one to catch (no bias, of course!).

Tickets are on sale now – click here to secure your spot!