Kabbarli: An Irishwoman In the Desert
23 August 2026
The Etcetera Theatre
4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Kabbarli: An Irishwoman In The Desert, recently staged at the Etcetera Theatre as part of the Camden Fringe, tells the true story of Daisy Bates, and Irish-Australian journalist and anthropologist who devoted her life to studying Aboriginal groups in Australia, learning their languages and cultures, and advocating for better treatment from colonisers.
Australia, 1883, a young woman arrives from Ireland with dreams of a better future. She works as a governess, gets married, has a child, and learns to be a journalist. When she first finds out about the poor treatment of Australia’s Aboriginal peoples by colonisers, she begins a journey that changes her entire life. Collecting stories from hundreds of Aboriginal people, she begins to advocate for them, but struggles to have her voice heard.
This one-woman-show by Georgia Nicholas is a work of passion from start to finish. Narrated first person from Daisy’s perspective, it gives a thorough understanding of her life and work. Reconstructed from diaries, articles and books, it’s an emotional journey that sheds light on a part of history often forgotten, though it is still very recent.
Nicholas throws herself into the story, with heightened emotional acting making the frustration and conflicted moral compass of Daisy very clear. Occasionally jarringly loud in such a small venue, the deep passion for the topic is palpable!
Part historical education, part very thoroughly constructed stage show, Kabbarli is gripping from beginning to end, leaving the audience deeply moved by the end.
