Mr Stink is the smelliest old soul that you could ever meet – but a new production of Mr Stink, now showing at the Arts Centre Melbourne, is anything but a stinker.

The show is based on David Walliams’ 2009 children’s novel and tells the story of lonely schoolgirl Chloe and her friendship with Mr Stink, a tramp who shows her more kindness than her family or schoolmates.

When Chloe’s mother, an aspiring politician, campaigns to remove homeless people from public places, Chloe invites Mr Stink to live in the family’s garden shed. He ends up an unlikely celebrity when the media discovers the story, and the results are both laugh-out-loud funny and thought-provoking.

There’s a wonderful mix of comic styles on display (including a generous helping of fart jokes and belches) and the audience enjoys getting involved at the right times. The five cast members (playing nine different characters) are all outstanding, but Darren Sabadina steals most of his scenes, with his roles as Chloe’s dad and Bollywood wannabe Raj featuring the best comic material.

The one-hour show explores themes of social justice, homelessness, bullying, prejudice, and family relationships. Mr Stink will resound for children aged 6-12 and their adults, but younger children with a reasonable attention span may also enjoy it, especially the dance scenes.

Thanks to journalist and mum for 2 Erika Jonsson for her guest post.

HOT Tips:

• Best suited for children aged 6-12.
• Pram parking is available.
• There’s a “smell-a-thon” activity set up outside the box office for identifying smells if you arrive early.