The world premiere of Fly Girl highlights an important chapter in Australian aviation history, marking a pivotal moment for Australian women and paving the way for change in women’s rights.

Written by Genevieve Hegney and Catherine Moore, the show centres on Deborah Lawrie, who dreams of becoming a commercial airline pilot but is repeatedly rejected by Ansett Airlines. This gripping true account delves into the legal battles and personal challenges Lawrie faced, while also laying bare the discrimination experienced in Australia only a few decades ago, when questions about babies and breastfeeding were standard parts of the interview process, and a pinch on the bum was considered part of the job.

Beginning in 1965, the narrative whizzes through the ‘60s and ‘70s, cleverly signposted by an ever-changing departure/arrivals board signally each year and location. Directed by Janine Watson, it’s a turbulent but brilliant ride filled with laughter. The story is a classical David and Goliath battle: the all-powerful Sir Reg Ansett, determined to keep women out of the cockpit, versus trailblazer Lawrie, who has dreamt of nothing else since she learnt to fly at age 16.

Cleo Menick stars as Lawrie, and the playwrights have crafted a rich, demanding role that allows her to traverse a full emotional landscape, from happiness to fury. A standout moment being her explosive release of colourful language stemming from 18 months of drawn-out legal frustration.

The rest of the cast take on multiple roles. Emma Palmer appears as Lawrie’s well-meaning mum and barrister Dwyer, while Alex Kirwan plays her air traffic controller hubby, and the aged-out air stewardess Helen (forced to retire from cabin duty at 35). We also see Hegney and Moore as Pat and Glenda, the show’s friendly hosties who chat to patrons in the aisles and guide them to their seats, before transforming into Reg and Frank from Ansett. In one brilliant moment, the duo executes a quick on-set character and costume change, their playful energy replaced with dour conniving men.

The music firmly situates the story in its era, with the hosties boogieing to Australian classics including Little River Band’s Help Is On Its Way. These lighter moments help break up the seriousness of the tale, because while Fly Girl is an absolute delight, 24-year-old Lawrie was fighting this battle with fierce determination.

The audience is joyfully transported back in time to when windows were wound down, and fondue parties were all the rage. Set and Costume Designer Gracie Deacon echoes Ansett Airlines original orange branding through the hostie’s uniforms and the backlit wall designed by Lighting Designer Morgan Moroney.

This is a show Australian women can proudly embrace, a reminder that courage and persistence can create real change. Judging by cheers, applause and standing ovation, Fly Girl is a triumphant and worthy watch.

5 stars

Run time: 2 hours 25 minutes (including interval)

Fly Girl is playing at Ensemble until 22 November 2025. 

For tickets visit Ensemble.