Dating isn’t easy and wouldn’t it be wonderful to skip ahead and be the couple sitting comfortably holding hands across the table? But first there are cringey conversations and all the getting to know you questions before you can even broach the big relationship ‘what do you want?’ questions. Strategic Love Play presents a different option.

Written by British playwright Miriam Battye, the play follows a couple Georgia-Paige Theodos (woman) and Caleb Jamieson (man) as they meet in a pub on a first date. The woman is immediately combative, challenging the man with odd, quirky questions to the point that he asks, ‘Are you alright?’

Their conversation is uncomfortable and unfiltered. There are no ground rules, the woman doesn’t tip-toe around what she wants to know, and nothing is off the table. Theodos is brilliant as the dejected, hopeful and simultaneously crushed woman. Her deep breaths, tentative stance and open expression reveal a confidence underpinned by a nothing-to-lose attitude: she’s just going to say it all. Jamieson plays the sweet guy who isn’t quite sure how to get himself out of the date, or whether this is actually someone he should consider committing to.  He brings an easy warmth to the role, expressing frustration and confusion as he attempts to keep up with her direct questions, creating compelling tension between them.

Directed by Ava Rusch, the tone is authentic, with the staging reinforcing the intimacy and awkwardness of the encounter. Surrounded by low-set tables occupied by couples, Bronte Hunt’s simple staging highlights the contrast between the established pairs and the man and woman seated at a high table in the middle of stage. The background music occasionally competes with the dialogue, making the couple’s conversation difficult to hear, particularly during the softly spoken, intimate moments.

Strategic Love Play asks us to reconsider how we date and what we want in a relationship. It’s a reminder that one date — or an unexpected question — can change everything, if you let it.  

3.5 stars

Presented by Sharehouse Production Company Strategic Love Play is playing at Flight Path Theatre in Marrickville, Sydney from 25 until 29 August 2026.

Run Time: 70 minutes (no interval)

For tickets visit Flight Path Theatre Book Now