Culture · 23 August 2026

Peter Goers To Direct 'The Sunshine Boys'

After appearing in 'The Man Who Came to Dinner', Peter Goers is taking on directorial duties for this adaptation of Neil Simon’s much-loved comedy.

By Tobias Handke

Robert Cusenza and Robin Schmaelzkopf - photo supplied

After stepping back on stage for Adelaide Repertory Theatre's (The Rep) recent production of The Man Who Came to Dinner, South Australian personality Peter Goers is taking over directorial duties for the theatre's upcoming production of Neil Simon’s much-loved comedy, The Sunshine Boys.

Running from Thursday 10 to Saturday 19 September at The Arts Theatre, The Sunshine Boys revolves around the dysfunctional duo of Al Lewis and Willie Clark, aka The Sunshine Boys.

After finding fame as a vaudeville comedy duo, Al and Willie haven't seen each other in years after falling out. Reunited in the same room, sparks fly as the two work through old rivalries and bruised egos.

The Rep production stars South Australian stage veterans Robert Cusenza and Robin Schmelzkopf as The Sunshine Boys, alongside Penni Hamilton-Smith and Lauren Thiel.

Tickets are on sale now at adelaiderep.com.

Director Peter Goers, who also has a cameo role in the production, said that the play is a theatrical masterpiece.

"The Sunshine Boys is a very funny play about very sad things – loneliness, old age, stubbornness, professional riffs and being washed up in show business," Goers said. "It's a masterpiece from Neil Simon, the most successful American playwright, and I've wanted to direct the play for a long time."

Following The Rep's opening production of The Man Who Came to Dinner, The Rep Chairman David Sinclair is excited for the season to continue with The Sunshine Boys.

"The Man Who Came to Dinner was The Rep's most successful production in over a decade. We are pleased to reunite with Peter Goers and a leading South Australian ensemble for one of the most significant comedies in American history," said Sinclair.

"This production marks the continuation of an exciting new era for The Rep, and we are proud to be championing community theatre in South Australia."

Catch The Sunshine Boys at The Arts Theatre from Thursday 10 to Saturday 19 September. Tickets on sale now at adelaiderep.com.