Gender equality message behind laughs in Potato Race play

Video: Gender equality and pay equity are among issues addressed beneath the comedy in State Theatre’s new potato race play.

South Australia may lead the nation for spud production but there’s a different kind of contest in State Theatre Company’s latest play, The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race.

Gender equality, pay equity and women’s rights are among the serious issues addressed beneath the comedy, which shows there is more than one way to peel a problem.

The Appleton Ladies' Potato Race actors Genevieve Mooy and Anna Steen at the State Theatre Company warehouse. Picture: Michael Marschall

“It could not be better timing,” said actor Genevieve Mooy, who stars alongside Anna Steen and The Project’s Susie Youssef.

“It’s really about gender equality in a small country town. The humble potato is something that Appleton grows, so this race is a big part of bringing the community together.

“The comedy is beautiful and very sharp, but underneath there is this underbelly of absolute rage.”

Inspired by real events, the play follows the cultural war which erupts when its characters protest the huge difference in prize money awarded to men and women at the town’s annual potato carrying race.

“The whole expression of ‘We’ve had enough’ is very much at the fore of this play – particularly in regards to wage equality, superannuation, and issues around that parity,” Mooy said.

“It seems like a great, fun piece but the through line is really deadly.”

The Appleton Ladies' Potato Race actors Genevieve Mooy and Anna Steen at the State Theatre Company warehouse. Picture: Michael Marschall

For the record, SA grows 80 per cent of the country’s potatoes – more than 500,000 tonnes each year.

Adelaide will also host the 2023 World Potato Congress, which is expected to attract more than 1000 delegates and generate $4.5 million for the state’s economy.

“Go the spuddies,” Mooy laughed. “What a fantastic food … a staple throughout history. There are just thousands of different varieties now.”

The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race is at the Royalty Theatre from June 4 to 19. Book at BASS.