Physical Fest 2026 has launched at Unity Theatre, and physical theatre legend Peta Lily burst onto the stage on Tuesday with her new show Ungirlfriended, in the guise of her ‘Cis-het-straight-white-man’ alter-ego, Parker Dee.
In this one-man show, self-proclaimed sensitive guy Parker Dee shares his sensitivity and understanding (as a part-time life coach) which has been illuminated recently when he was unceremoniously dumped by his girlfriend via WhatsApp while performing on stage.
Through an evening of cabaret style performance, Parker bares his soul to the audience with a series of emotional songs, linked by deeply revealing monologue and meaningful connection with his audience. As he explains effusively, ‘Queer Eye’ couldn’t possibly teach anyone to carry off such stylish outfits and personal grooming with his flair.
This is non-stop observational comedy that is delivered with such precision and wry wit that it is hard to see the join between social satire and outrageous parody. Lily’s writing and performance is so sharp that the comedy and commentary blend seamlessly into a simultaneously hilarious and scarily true picture of someone who is trying so hard to be genuinely woke that they end up being skin-crawlingly embarrassing.
From original songs such as the Brel-inspired ‘Ow Baby’ to the closing ‘I Kissed a Boy (and I Liked It)’, and through discourses on subjects as diverse as becoming an ‘uncel’ and mansplaining (the latter perhaps being one of the most convolutedly hysterical parts of the evening), this is a show that defies you to predict from moment to moment where Parker is going to go next. After intentionally excruciating awkwardness at the opening, a series of heart-to-hearts in which various audience members are rewarded with signature pink hankies as souvenirs, leads to a surreal sense of being part of a slightly unhinged self-help group.
Both the construction and delivery of this show are so masterful that it is no wonder that Peta Lily’s workshops on mime, expression, clowning and Commedia dell’Arte are so sought after.
The opportunity to see her at work truly is a special theatrical occasion.
Physical Fest continues until 12th September – read the full lineup here.
Star rating: 5 stars
Photos of Parker Dee (c) Peta Lily
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