Introducing: Cast of "THE SHEDS"

Spotlight on Patrick Chiroco, Ludwik Exposto and Andii Mulders

As anticipation builds for the upcoming premiere of THE SHEDS at the Melbourne Fringe Festival, Presidential Productions is proud to announce the talented ensemble bringing James Cunningham's provocative new play to life. The young cast features three of Melbourne's most dynamic and daring young actors; Patrick Chirico, Ludwik Exposto and Andii Mulders.​

Meet the Cast

Patrick Chirico takes the role of Darren Anderson, the star player whose personal journey forms the crux of the narrative. Chirico, a former-accountant, personal trainer and amateur actor from Melbourne, Australia, has a background that spans coaching, writing and performance. Chirico's multi-faceted experience brings depth and authenticity to the complex character of Darren, as does the young actor's physical appearance which truely embodies that of an athletic AFL player. On working with Chiroco, "His performance is soft, understated, layered and intellectual. He's a dream to work with," says writer/director James Cunningham.

Ludwik Exposto portrays Liam, captain of the fictional Fitzroy Fighters and a teammate whose interactions with Darren reveal underlying tensions and unspoken truths within the locker room. Exposto is recognised for his affable and physical stage presence and has been noted for his dedication to performance. A power-lifter, Exposto's physical appearance has been likened to the Statue of David, under the right lighting conditions, and his ability to navigate nuanced roles adds a compelling layer to the ensemble.​

Andii Mulders embodies Jimmy, whose obsessive jealousy and descent into madness challenge the dynamics of the team. "Jimmy is a firecracker of a charecter, unpredictable, and Andii knocks it out of the park," says Cunningham. Known for intense and transformative performances, Mulders will bring a raw energy to THE SHEDS.

Rehearsals with Patrick Chiroco, Andii Mulders and Ludwik Exposto © Presidential Productions

Director James Cunningham conducted an extensive search to assemble a cast capable of authentically conveying the raw emotions and complex relationships central to THE SHEDS. The audition process was rigorous, focusing not only on acting prowess but also on the actors' willingness to engage deeply with challenging material.​

"We wanted actors who could balance physical vulnerability with emotional strength," Cunningham explains. "There needed to be a balance between the choice of the three cast, and how they would interact with eachother, each bringing their unique perspective and interpretation to their respective character. The audition process was about finding individuals who could authentically inhabit these roles and navigate the complexities of the narrative."​

The audition process was anything but conventional — rather than seeking polished performances, the casting team prioritised authenticity, raw energy and an actor’s willingness to take creative risks. “We weren’t just casting roles,” the director recalls, “we are assembling a team — people who support each other, can challenge each other, and ultimately elevate the story.” That instinct paid off, as the resulting cast shares not only a natural chemistry but a shared hunger to make the material resonate.

With rehearsals now underway, the synergy among Cunningham, Chirico, Exposto and Mulders is palpable, promising a production that is both powerful and thought-provoking. Audiences can expect a performance that challenges perceptions and invites introspection on themes of identity, masculinity, and the human condition.​

Each actor seems uncannily suited to their role, as if the characters were written with them in mind — a testament to director James Cunningham’s sharp eye for casting. There’s an undeniable sense that this ensemble was meant to collide, with each performer bringing a distinct presence that complements the others. Cunningham’s choices don’t just reflect talent, but a deep understanding of chemistry, rhythm and emotional range. Beyond their performances on the page, the actors have embraced the physical demands of their roles with remarkable bravery — throwing themselves into movement, posture and presence in ways that elevate the realism of each scene. It’s a rare blend of instinct and effort, and it’s paying off in every rehearsal.

THE SHEDS will premiere at the Melbourne Fringe Festival this September. Tickets are anticipated to sell quickly for this intimate and provocative production. For more information and to secure your seats, visit the Melbourne Fringe Festival website.​

Tickets on sale now at MelbourneFringe.com.au

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