— Coming 2026
By Hayley Lawson-Smith
Directed by Johanna Hayes
Produced by Carlotta Migliolo
We are thrilled to announce the beginning of a new theatrical journey: Absorption, a witty and sharply observed social commentary wrapped inside a supernatural thriller. Written by Hayley Lawson-Smith, the play invites us into a community of women whose lives intertwine in ways both humorous and unsettling. Nothing is quite what it first appears — and everyone has something to hide.
At its heart, Absorption explores the intensity of modern motherhood and the subtle power dynamics that form between those who watch, compare, protect, and sometimes quietly compete. Each character is richly drawn: familiar on the surface, and deeply layered underneath. The result is a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking — indeed, absorbing.
“The script’s real strength is in its dynamic interplay between the characters… The audience watches these women watching their children; we observe the power plays, the alliances, the manipulations… They are both familiar and unnerving.”
— Playlab Theatre, 2020
Where We Are Now
Absorption is currently in early pre-production.
Once we’ve confirmed our cast, secured our venue, and finalised production dates, we’ll be excited to officially announce our 2026 production.
Publication Information
Absorption © Hayley Lawson-Smith
First Published September 2020 by Playlab Theatre
ISBN: 978 1 92242 11 2