Stranded by torrential rains and a washed-out bridge, a group of six women, five of them teachers, rip open the wine casks and subsequently each other in Roger Hall's quick-witted comedy Social Climbers.

Veteran actress Maggie Kirkpatrick shines as the indomitable Maxine, a brazen teacher who enjoys recounting her sexual conquests and heyday in the theatre. In the course of the play her character walks all over the likes of Emily (Fiona Press) and Susan (Paula Duncan), both coming to terms with the shortcomings of their spouses and their children. 

Belinda Giblin plays a convincing counsellor rols as Annie, and Heather Christie throws maturity into the ring with her portrayal of Kath. Bucking the system and her mother's compliant nature, Sinead (Beth Armstrong) adds the rough edge to a story of six women in search of contentment and success.

Playwright Roger Hall has produced many successful plays and Social Climbers is set to follow suit. Set in a hut in the Blue Mountains, the play pitches friends against one another in startling conforntations, providing plenty of laughs and the occasional squirm in your seat.

Providing a healthy dose of men bashing, this one will make a perfect girl's night out, but gentlemen in the audience will be equally impressed by the calibre of acting and excellent characterisations.

By: Kate Farrelly; 1998
Australian press