The Peach Season by Debra Oswald

If you’re looking for a play that pulls you into an emotional journey, The Peach Season delivers. On the surface, it may seem like a modern retelling of the Demeter and Persephone myth, but it’s so much more. The story dives into themes of love, loss, and growing up, making it deeply relatable and engaging for audiences.

First impressions:

The cover, featuring a simple yet effective photograph of Zoe and Kieran, sets the tone for the play beautifully.

One of the standout aspects of this play is its minimal stage directions, which allow for greater audience engagement and emotional connection. This openness gives room for interpretation, making every production feel unique.

While some plot points are a little predictable, such as Zoe’s inevitable rebellious streak, the play remains compelling. A couple of off-screen characters lean toward cliché, but the main cast more than makes up for it with their depth and authenticity.

Kieran, especially, is an endearing character who adds warmth to the story.

Themes:

At its heart, The Peach Season is a story about relationships. It explores the deep love between parents and children, the unique and sometimes difficult bonds between siblings, and the rush of first love. The play also delves into grief and resilience, showing how people rebuild their lives after loss. A central conflict is the tension between protection and independence—how far can a parent go to shield their child before they must let them grow on their own?

Why you’ll love it:

The plot, while containing a few predictable moments, remains engaging throughout. Oswald offers a fresh take on timeless themes, making the story feel both familiar and new. The play is an emotional rollercoaster, but it’s also enjoyable to experience, whether reading or watching a performance. Dorothy’s witty asides provide light-hearted relief amid the drama, keeping the balance just right.

Oswald’s writing style is immersive without being overly poetic, capturing the essence of contemporary Australia. The strength of The Peach Season truly lies in its characters. While some minor ones feel a little familiar, the main cast is relatable and deeply human. From the overprotective mother to the rebellious daughter and the kind-hearted teen struggling to find his place, every character feels like someone you might know. Because the characters are so recognisable, the audience connects with them on a personal level, making the story even more powerful. The emotional impact of the play is undeniable. It pulls the audience in, making them laugh, cry, and reflect on their own lives. Dorothy, in particular, brings humour to balance the intensity, making the experience even more immersive.

Favourite character:

Dorothy, hands down. She’s the no-nonsense, wise grandmotherly figure who has a knack for taking care of everyone in sight. Her humour provides much-needed relief from the heavier moments.

Favourite moments:

Anytime Kieran tries to protect Zoe but stumbles over his words and actions. His awkward yet heartfelt attempts make him one of the most relatable characters in the play.

Final thoughts:

The Peach Season is a beautifully written play that balances drama with humour, heartache with hope. It acknowledges that life is messy and unpredictable, yet still offers a sense of resilience and strength. The characters stay with you long after the final scene, making it a story well worth experiencing.

Would I watch a stage production of this play? Absolutely, without a doubt. If you enjoy contemporary theatre that speaks to the complexities of life and relationships, The Peach Season is a must-read—and a must-see if you get the chance!