Cheese Wraps and Blueberries
Refinery ArtSpace, 114 Hardy St, Nelson
08/03/2025 - 09/03/2025
Production Details
Writer/performer Nikkie Karki
Dramaturg/director Donna Chapman
CRE8
Supported by Umbrella project
Supported by Nelson creative communities
‘Cheese wraps and blueberries’ evolved from the developmental work of ‘Not Just a Mother’ Nelson Fringe 2023 and centres around a mother, Charlotte. Through a series of humorous anecdotes about her 2 young children and an encounter with an acquaintance, the monologue explores various themes related to motherhood in society.
The new work dives deeper into the challenges and frustrations of parenting, the impact of unsolicited advice, the overwhelming weight of responsibility, along with the conflict between social expectations and individual experience. This all hinges on the unrealistic ideal of perfection.
Despite the challenges and frustrations Charlotte faces, she ultimately celebrates the profound love and joy that come with being a mother. Charlotte’s description of the intense bond she shares with her children, her willingness to sacrifice for them, and her ability to find wonder in their everyday experiences demonstrate the deep emotional rewards of motherhood.
All the anecdotes are based on true scenarios and situations the writer and performer has encounter with her own young children. Nikkie likes to use real life experiences and draws on real interactions she has had within her relationships, which she explores further in her writing. She loves to look at all angles of a person’s character, exploring how past experiences can shape how we react and respond to others in the present.
The Refinery Artspace, 114 Hardy St, Nelson
Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th March 2025
7.30pm til 8.30pm
Nelson Fringe Festival 2025
CAST
Nikkie Karki
Donna Chapman
Theatre ,
50 minutes to 1 hour max
Balances humour with heartfelt moments in the tribulations and joys of motherhood
Review by Melanie Stewart 09th Mar 2025
Cheese Wraps and Blueberries evolved from the developmental work Not Just a Mother, Nelson Fringe 2023. The play is a thoughtful exploration of the joys and tribulations of motherhood and centres around a mother, Charlotte, and her relationship with her two children. It is devised from the experiences and situations encountered by the writer and performer, Nikkie Karki.
Karki transitions between characters with ease, keeping the audience engaged throughout. The strength of the performance lies in its relatable characters, each adding depth to the narrative. The vocal dexterity displayed by the Karki in switching between accents is impressive, bringing an added layer of authenticity to the performance.
The scenarios depicted are believable for anyone with children, tapping into everyday challenges and delights of parenthood. One standout moment involves the unsolicited advice from a mother who proudly boasts about raising two seemingly perfect children — it’s a scenario that many will find all too familiar and amusing.
There are lovely comic moments highlighted by the antics of a two-year-old son, capturing the chaotic humour that often accompanies parenting. Amidst the laughter, there are poignant moments that explore the relationship breakdown between the advice-giving mother and her daughter.
Overall, this production balances humour with heartfelt moments, portraying the fatigue and difficulties of parenting while also shining a light on the joys of motherhood.
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