Smoke & Mirrors - 2025
Smoke and Mirrors was an evocative and thought-provoking theatrical exploration of femininity, power, and the complexities of the stripping industry.
Set in the dimly lit world of The Fox's Tail, the play took audiences deep into the lives of its workers, each of whom navigated the fine line between fantasy and reality in a world driven by performance, desire and survival.
Through themes of choice, sacrifice, and self-worth, Smoke and Mirrors invited the audience to witness the intricate performances of both the women on stage and the masks they wear in their personal lives.
At its core, the play is a commentary on the ways in which society commodifies the female form, the bonds that are both forged and broken in the process, and the price one must pay.
Performed at The Pole Gym, Brisbane City, Meannjin as part of Anywhere Fest
Nominated for the Anywhere Award for Theatre and Anywhere Award for Immersive Experience
"I'm not usually into theatre, but my friend dragged me to this, and I'm so glad she did. I didn't know storytelling could be this powerful or beautiful. I was thinking about it for weeks."
Smoke & Mirrors
2025
"Smoke & Mirrors is a play written with biting wit and unexpected tenderness. Characters slip in and out of stage personas with ease, but behind every routine is a story of love, loss, betrayal, and empowerment."
"I've worked in the club for 12 years. This is the first time I've seen us on stage without being turned into a joke or cautionary tale."
"This show made space for the outsiders, the survivors, the performers who've had to fight to be seen. It's queer, it's gritty, and it's gorgeous."
"Smoke & Mirrors is a celebration of survival. Every woman in that show holds a mirror to the world and dares you to look."
“I worked as an actor under JJ and Lily's direction, they both embody utter professionalism in their approach to theatre, especially whilst tackling sensitive topics that require empathy, tolerance, and respect. They created a space that was open to questions, critique, and discussion. This directing style gave me as an actor freedom to explore the character and script while also providing the necessary tools and comfort to approach intimate scenes with safety and esteem. It was truly a blessing and privilege to work with them, as I consider them not only great creatives but also incredible friends.”
Oscar Ascione (He/Him) - Clint in Smoke & Mirrors
Company of
Smoke & Mirrors
Ette Karney (She/Her)...
Lily Shaw (She/Her)...
Alyssa Valenti (She/Her)...
Jake Godwin (He/Him)...
Oscar Ascione (He/Him)...
Tanaka Utete (He/Him)...
Cristián Stanique (He/Him)...
JJ Jones (He/Him)...
Amber Lawson (She/Her)...
Tara Edmonston (She/Her)...
Anika Jocumsen (She/Her)...
Anna Di Sandro (She/Her)...
Cindy Ambridge (She/Her)...
...London
...Vixen, Co-Writer, Co-Director
...Bunny
...Rico
...Clint
...Lenny
...Bartender
...Co-Writer, Co-Director
...Stage Manager
...Marketing
...Choreographer
...Costume/Makeup
...Intimacy Coordinator