'Call Girls' promises uproarious entertainment as four determined older women strive to save their cherished Beach Haven Rest Home from a corporate developer. Phoenix Theatre searched extensively for a play with heart, humour and relatable characters, and 'Call Girls' hits all the marks. “In today's turbulent times, this play offers a refreshing escape,” says Phoenix Theatre's vice president, Braydon Priest.

In the play, residents Ivy, Angela, Pauline and Rose adopt alter egos and launch a pay-per-minute phone chat service to raise funds, battling against a conniving councillor and the looming threat of 'Shady Glades', a corporate giant in retirement living. From the comedic misadventures in the world of chat lines to encounters with a suave tv host, a stereotypical Irish priest, and an overly enthusiastic exercise instructor, 'Call Girls' guarantees non-stop laughter from curtain up to curtain down.

Local writer James Carrick drew inspiration from his experiences working around retirement communities, infusing the laughs with heartfelt moments. “Meeting older people every day who have so much to share motivated me to bring their stories to the stage,” Carrick explains.

The Phoenix Theatre team refrains from comparisons but suggests fans of 'Calendar Girls', 'Ladies Day' and 'Dinner Ladies' will find 'Call Girls' equally enjoyable. The production has already attracted substantial interest, with cast members commuting from as far afield as Onehunga and Bethells Beach. Director Liz Cannon's enthusiasm is palpable. She says, "Rehearsals are going extremely well, and with such a strong and talented cast, the whole process is a real pleasure. We can't wait to bring this wonderfully funny and heart-warming play to the stage!"

The Seemore Tours season of 'Call Girls' at Takapuna's PumpHouse Theatre runs from Thursday 17 to Saturday 26 October.
Tickets are already in hot demand – hurry to secure your tickets now at pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on/show/call-girls