Following seasons in Melbourne, Adelaide and Canberra, Willy Russell’s life-affirming one-woman play, which premiered in 1986, is headed for Sydney and Brisbane with Natalie Bassingthwaighte as Shirley. It tells the story of a middle-aged, working-class Liverpool housewife who finds herself stuck in a rut. Talking to her kitchen wall, she dreams of escape. So, when a friend suggests a holiday in Greece, she decides the time has come to do something for herself. The play may be slightly dated, but it is still full of heart and humour.

Limelight Editor’s Choice

Experience the heartwarming, hilarious, and utterly inspiring story of Shirley Valentine, brought to life by Australian stage and screen star Natalie Bassingthwaighte. Written by Willy Russell and directed by Lee Lewis this timeless West End and Broadway comedy will take you on a journey of self-discovery, laughter, and second chances.

Shirley is an unassuming housewife with a dream—and a passport. Talking to her kitchen wall, she dreams of escape and wonders what happened to the adventurous girl she once was.

When a friend invites her on a spontaneous holiday to Greece, Shirley takes a bold leap into the unknown. With humour, charm and grit, she rediscovers her passion for life and her sense of self. Will she return to her old ways, or will Shirley find a new life where she can finally be her true self?