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End Polio Theatre Night

Pymble Players are performing THE APPLETON LADIES POTATO RACE

Sponsored by Chatswood Roseville Rotary Club & Turramurra Rotary Club

Tuesday 28th October 6.30 p.m. for 7.30 p.m.

The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race is an Australian stage play by Melanie Tait, first performed in 2019.

Story

It’s set in the fictional rural town of Appleton, NSW, where the annual Potato Race is the highlight of the year. The tradition is simple: men and women compete to see who can run the fastest carrying a sack of potatoes. But when local GP Penny Anderson returns home from Sydney, she is shocked to discover that the men’s prize money is five times higher than the women’s. Penny decides to challenge the status quo and campaigns for equal prize money — and in doing so, stirs up tensions in her small community.

Themes

• Gender Equality & Fairness: At its heart, the play is about the fight for equal pay and respect for women, even in seemingly small traditions.

• Community & Belonging: It explores how close-knit rural communities react to change and challenges to “the way things have always been.”

• Friendship & Conflict: Penny’s crusade puts her at odds with old friends, neighbours, and even family, forcing everyone to question their values.

• Humour & Heart: Though tackling serious issues, the play is written as a comedy-drama — warm, witty, and uplifting.

Why it resonates

It’s based on a true story: Melanie Tait grew up in Robertson, NSW, where she discovered the men’s potato race prize was five times higher than the women’s. Her real-life push for change inspired the play.

Since its debut, The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race has been widely praised for its humour, relatability, and timely message about equality in everyday life.

Date

Location

Get directions

Zenith Theatre
Railway Street, Chatswood NSW 2067

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