A new production, set at a roller derby and performed on skates, tackles a range of issues including parenting and youth mental health, while offering a joyous, exhilarating experience. As Mama Does Derby prepares to premiere at the Sydney and Adelaide Festivals, Lenny Ann Low talks to its co-creators Virginia Gay and Clare Watson.

A promotional image for Mama Does Derby. Photo supplied

Several years ago, Clare Watson, the current Artistic Director of Windmill Production Company in Adelaide, went to watch a roller derby bout. Held on the outskirts of Melbourne, it was noisy, edgy and thrilling – unlike anything she had ever seen before. 

Across two 30-minute halves, on a tight, flat, oval track, a spree of state team skaters in knee pads and helmets – some in fishnets or striped face paint – spun past...