We’re All Gonna Die: Climate Crisis, But Make It Brisbane (and Add a Roomba)

Captivated once again by the striking promotional photos and overlooking the fine print, it quickly became clear that We’re All Gonna Die isn’t quite the “eco-thriller” the marketing suggested. Instead, the show unfolded more like a live-action comic book: vibrant, fast-moving, and packed with over the top performances that deliver cheeky smiles instead of serious scares.

While it’s not laugh-out-loud hilarious, it remains consistently entertaining, peppered with enough Brisbane in-jokes to keep local audiences amused. It also handles the climate messaging extraordinarily well - clear without being preachy, and playful without undermining the seriousness of the theme. Teachers, take note: this is a solid excursion pick.

The ensemble turns in solid performances, fully embracing slapstick and character comedy with cut-throat enthusiasm. A particular nod to Milena Nesic who impressively holds her own alongside seasoned performers. Together they impressively navigates a dizzying number of quick costume changes and scene transitions with ease, keeping the momentum alive throughout.

Design-wise, the show is visually rich, with an impressive mix of inflatable set pieces, miniatures, and nostalgic shadow puppetry using an old-school projector. These moments are some of the production’s most inventive. However, the central puppet—an ocean monster cobbled together from garbage bags—didn’t quite measure up. Against the otherwise polished aesthetic, it felt more deformed bin chicken than sea creature, and the clear use of a literal Roomba during its early “baby” stage undercut the show’s immersion. It’s a rare misstep in an otherwise beautifully realised world.

Despite that, We’re All Gonna Die remains a fun, fizzy ride perfect for kids, families, and school groups. Comic and chaotic, I didn’t mind missing the dark and confronting climate change thriller this time around.

Though I am curious if La Boîte witll continue shifting toward youth-focused, education-targeted programming? After productions like Fancy Long Legs, Macbeth, and now We’re All Gonna Die, it seems the company is moving away from its grittier past toward a more commercial, classroom-friendly future. Should audiences expect more shows like this on the horizon? Time will tell.