Look at the State of the Carpet is a truly unhinged blend of improv, clowning and vaudevillian comedy that will surely divide audiences as well as captivate.
Stephanie Hart and Lenny Ann Low have been friends for 30 years, a friendship that has evolved from piles of clothes, the fine forearms of men and the nonconformity of their shared theatre practice. A friendship forged in the fires of “yes, and”, and gives support to each other’s ideas, no matter how left of centre they maybe.
There is truly no way to define the main through line of the work, and in that lays its brilliance. The audience has no choice but to give over their attention as they discard any hope of “getting it.” Instead, the audience gets an absurdist delight that baffles the mind as much as it ignites moments of absolute hilarity.
Stephanie Hart and Lenny Ann Low are masterfully committed to the bit – weaving a path of nonsensical stories and off kilter anecdotes that never quite go anywhere but make a point… maybe!
The symbiotic nature of the duo beats at the heart of this work – two kindred spirits utterly indulging in what makes them both laugh and making no apologies for it. Every inch of the space is used, with meaningless props brought to life with even less meaning but a large dollop of vitality and whimsy.
This is a work that is often found in the depths of the fringe circuit and for that reason, it may not resonate with some audiences, but it will deliver 45 minutes of pure unashamed joy… and sometimes, that’s all we need theatre to do.
Look At The State Of The Carpet
The Old Fitz Theatre, 129 Dowling Street, Woolloomooloo (Sydney)
Season continues to 15 March 2026
Information: www.oldfitztheatre.com.au
Image: Stephanie Hart and Lenny Ann Low – photo by Lucy Clements
Review: Gavin Roach