You’re Not Special: A Darkly Funny, Painfully Honest Look at Modern Life

What happens when the way we connect with the world begins to disconnect us from ourselves?

This July, Staged Theatre brings Sam O’Sullivan’s critically acclaimed dark comedy You’re Not Special to the Sunshine Coast, directed and performed by the powerhouse ensemble of Tyraeli Langley, Riley Scott, and Caitie Elliott.

At first glance, You’re Not Special seems like a modern love story gone wrong: Dan meets an attractive stranger, and his seemingly solid life begins to spiral. Meanwhile, his girlfriend Ellie faces mounting pressures at work, and student teacher April... well, April has a key to your apartment. It’s funny, it’s awkward, and it’s unnervingly close to home.

But beneath its sharp wit and biting dialogue, You’re Not Special is a meditation on how technology, media saturation, and endless "connectivity" have begun to erode the most basic aspects of what makes us human — our need for real, meaningful connection. It’s about life and love in the modern age. About how we got here. About where we might be heading if we’re not careful. And most of all, it’s about you.

Sam O'Sullivan

Sam O’Sullivan, one of Australia’s most exciting contemporary playwrights, is known for creating works that are sharp, insightful, and deeply relatable. His writing has been praised for its "biting humour" and "delicious sense of urgency" (Suzy Wrong), and You're Not Special is no exception. Originally premiering at Kings Cross Theatre in Sydney, the play quickly captured attention for its fearless examination of life in the digital age.

This new production is led by an outstanding ensemble:

Tyraeli Langley, a co-founder of Staged Theatre and debut performer.

Riley Scott, a talented and dynamic actor whose recent work has been celebrated for its intensity and relatability.

Caitie Elliott, co-founder of Staged Theatre, bringing her signature blend of wit, authenticity, and heart to the stage once again.

📍 When & Where: Black Box Theatre, Nambour 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, and 20 July 2025

🎟️ Tickets: Tickets will be on sale soon — keep an eye out for the announcement!

Because maybe... just maybe... you're not as special as you think.