18 Eden Avenue is a sweet, intergenerational story about three “strong women” living under one roof. As expected, family tensions and romances simmer, while a series of twists and surprising secrets nudge the play into a less conventional territory.

Written, directed and designed by Roger Gimblett, with original score by Sally Bodkin-Allen, the production takes a little time to settle, with the cast gradually relaxing into the material.

Gimblett’s script draws gentle chuckles from the audience and ultimately lands as a warm, feel-good musical. While it is structurally a musical, its real strength lies in the narrative and performances, particularly the solo or duet numbers.

There are several standout musical moments, most notably, Jenny Jacob’s rendition of “When I Dream” is sung from the heart, with an authentic longing that resonates widely. As Gimblett suggests, these are the moments where “a song should take over when words are no longer enough.”

As Honoria, Jacobs delivers a delightful cheeky grandmother, leaning into eccentricity while reciting scenes from Shakespeare with ease. However, she’s not reminiscing her performance days, this is a conscious effort to keep her mind sharp and ward away dementia, adding a poignancy to the music.

Arthur (Greg Thornton), initially unassuming, blossoms in Act Two. His reprise of “Someone in the Greenhouse” expressed with deep and gravitas, a striking contrast to the Act One iteration. Similarly, the duet “At Least You Tried” between Thornton and Jack Taylor (Gilford) is well paired. The company numbers are less consistent, with harmonies occasionally faltering.

The earnest confessional scenes reinforce the show’s emotional core and where Isabella Rodrigues as Sophie shines. Teenage performers Sophie Laurantus (Poppy) and Jasper Barnard (Simon) bring enthusiasm and a sense of promise.

Gimblett’s set design creates a warm, homely environment, gradually opening up to reveal the interior of a rambling, historic house. Costume design by Molly Haddon further enhances characterisation, with each outfit thoughtfully reflecting individuality, Sophie’s lime green dress a nod to her theatricality, while Gilford’s dressing gown hints at his ego centric showman attitude.

Gimblett notes, it is intended as a work audiences can “quietly reflect on,” one in which “we all recognise something of ourselves” and about “the things that really matter day to day.” This contemporary domestic musical captures the quiet complexities of family life, balancing warmth and humour with earnest confessional scenes.

3.5 stars

Presented by Genesian Theatre 18 Eden Avenue is playing at Rozelle, Sydney until 28 March 2026.

For tickets visit Genesian Theatre