A Show of Family and Belonging
Hannah had her trip all planned out. Travel to Korea. Visit her birth mother. Spend a golden summer creating precious memories.
But when she arrives in Seoul reality hits hard. Her Umma works in a convenience store day and night, barely taking a break. She seems more interested in stacking shelves and re-arranging the garden gnome display than connecting with her long-lost Australian daughter.
Hannah is Korean, yet in Umma’s mind, Hannah is a “Koreaboo”—a foreigner captivated by K-Pop, kimchi and hanboks. Armed with only Google Translate and unrelenting optimism, Hannah must try to find a place within Umma’s world before the end of a sweltering summer.
Taking inspiration from real events in playwright Michelle Lim Davidson‘s life (The Feather in the Web, The Newsreader), this profound and heartfelt play marks the writing debut of one of Australia’s most beloved performers. Michelle herself takes to the stage under the direction of Jessica Arthur (The Dictionary of Lost Words), in a reunion story that reaches across continents, cultures and Spotify® playlists.
Dates & Times
2 - 19 Sep
Duration: 80 minutes
Previews: 2 - 4 September
Tuesday - Wednesdays: 6:30pm
Thursday - Saturdays: 7:30pm
Saturday Matinee: 12 September, 2pm
Venue
Roundhouse Theatre
Accessibility
- Auslan
- Audio Described
- Wheelchair Access
Credits
Cast
Heather Jeong
Michelle Lim Davidson
Creatives
Playwright: Michelle Lim Davidson
Director: Jessica Arthur
Dramaturg: Julian Larnach
Designer: Mel Page
Composer & Sound Designer: Brendon Boney
Lighting Designer: Kate Baldwin
Design Associate: James Stibilj
Hero image: David Kelly
Koreaboo was first produced by Griffin Theatre Company, 14 June - 20 July 2025 at Belvoir St Theatre.