As a busy mum who doesn’t get out to the theatre nearly as often as I’d like, my night at Ensemble Theatre to see Bette & Joan felt like a real treat—and thankfully, it delivered.
From the moment I sat down, I was pulled into the sharp, tense world of two iconic women whose rivalry is just as fascinating as you’d hope. The play dives into the relationship between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford during the filming of What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?, and it’s packed with biting humour, emotional moments, and just enough drama to keep you completely engaged (even after a long day of school runs and dinner prep!).
What stood out most to me was the chemistry between the two leads. Their performances felt so real that at times I forgot I was watching actors—they captured both the glamour and the vulnerability of these ageing Hollywood stars beautifully. There’s something quite relatable, too, in the themes of insecurity, competition, and wanting to stay relevant, even if the setting is far more glamorous than everyday mum life.
The staging was simple but effective, which I actually appreciated. It kept the focus on the performances and the story rather than overwhelming the audience with spectacle. And at just the right length, it didn’t feel like a late-night endurance test—important when you know the kids will still be up at dawn!
If I had one small criticism, it’s that some of the industry references might go over your head if you’re not familiar with classic Hollywood—but honestly, the emotional core of the story still lands regardless.
All in all, Bette & Joan is a clever, engaging production that feels like a proper night out—grown-up, a little indulgent, and well worth organising a babysitter for. I left feeling both entertained and surprisingly moved, which isn’t always guaranteed these days.
A lovely reminder that it’s important to carve out a bit of time for yourself—and that great storytelling never goes out of style.
Get your tickets here: https://www.ensemble.com.au/shows/bette-and-joan/