one4review | On 25, Aug 2026

Written by Koel Purie Rinchet, Mummy’s Dead, Long Live Mummy is a poignant, perceptive and often very funny portrait of four mothers on the edge. Viviane Bossina, Tiffany Hofstetter, Koel Purie and Laura Woody form a terrific ensemble, each bringing something distinctive to this engaging exploration of modern motherhood.

We never learn the women’s names, but we hear plenty about their children and the very different challenges they face. Running through their stories is that most familiar burden of motherhood: crippling guilt. Whatever choices these women make, there always seems to be another reason to believe they have somehow got it wrong.

Rinchet’s script tackles some weighty subjects, including postnatal depression, racial abuse and ADHD, while skilfully balancing the serious with moments of genuine humour. One particularly thought-provoking sequence sees a mother making a sex-education video on her phone for her child rather than actually sitting down and having the conversation face-to-face. It neatly captures the awkwardness, fear and uncertainty that can accompany even the most well-intentioned parenting.

The four performers bounce beautifully off one another, allowing the comedy to emerge naturally. Beneath the laughter lies a thoughtful examination of how easily a mother’s own identity can become submerged beneath the needs of her children.

It is a joy to stumble across a show this accomplished at 11.10 in the morning. Funny, compassionate and moving, Mummy’s Dead, Long Live Mummy deserves to be playing to full houses.

*****
Reviewed by Rona
theSpace@Symposium Hall

Until 29th August

11.10am