★★★★ “The perfect night at the theatre.” Broadway World
“Funny, sad and true, this is a play that will foster conversation, and save lives.” The Australian
The year is 1999 and Shannon has a secret.
Shannon Molloy is a year 9 student at an all-boys rugby-mad Catholic school in regional Queensland, with a secret that no one can ever find out. Shannon is gay.
Based on the best-selling memoir by award-winning journalist Shannon Molloy, Fourteen is the inspirational true story of growing up gay in central Queensland (it could be Bathurst), transformed into a powerful must-see theatre production by nationally acclaimed Shake & Stir Theatre Co (Dracula).
Set to a nostalgic mixtape of 90s bangers from all your faves, from Shania Twain to The Spice Girls, Fourteen addresses the trials and tribulations of growing up with honesty, humour, and heart. Equal parts uplifting and heart wrenching, we follow Shannon in a year of self-discovery set amidst a backdrop of torment, bullying and betrayal – not just at the hands of his peers, but by the adults who were meant to protect him.
This moving coming-of-age memoir about adversity and tragedy is also a story of resilience, hope and hilarity – thanks to the love of a group of close-knit friends, a fiercely protective family, an extraordinary mother and… S Club 7.
So, press play on your discman, lose yourself in a pumping 90s pop remix and take a technicoloured trip back to your teens. This is Fourteen.
Why I’ve Programmed Fourteen for Bathurst
When managers programme performing arts events for their venues there are many things taken into consideration: demographics of the community, existing audiences, potential audiences, reputation of the performers or the producing company, an opportunity to grow the exposure of performers or the producing company, entertainment value, quality of work, relevance to the local community, political climate, social issues and hot topics.
BMEC Manager, Jonathan Llewellyn, discusses why he has programmed Fourteen for the Bathurst community.
MEDIA
From ABC Weekend News Breakfast
Shannon Molloy says his story is for everyone, after his best-selling novel has been adapted into play which will tour nationally.
★★★★★ “Shake & Stir has done it again!” Broadway World
“Funny, sad and true, this is a play that will foster conversation, and save lives.” The Australian
“A must-see.” Q News
“Should not be missed.” Blue Curtains Brisbane
“Conor Leach truly is a star.” – The Courier-Mail
“In classic Shake & Stir fashion, the performance never shied away from confronting topics, but not without the quick gag slotted in to ease the tension and remind the audience that there is light at the end of the tunnel.” The Courier-Mail
“Utterly captivating, heart wrenching, and witty, this adaption of Shannon Molloy’s memoir was lovingly brought to life.” Theatre Travels
Created By
Writer Shannon Molloy
Adaptors Nelle Lee, Nick Skubij with Shannon Molloy
Director Nick Skubij
Creative Producer Ross Balbuziente
Set Designer Josh McIntosh
Costume Designer Fabian Holford
Lighting Designer Trent Suidgeest
Sound Designer & Composer Guy Webster
Choreographer Dan Venz
Intimacy Director Michelle Miall
Fight Director Tim Dashwood
Featuring Leon Cain, Karen Crone, Judy Hainsworth, Ryan Hodson, Amy Ingram, Conor Leach as Shannon Molloy, and Steven Rooke
Details
By Shannon Molloy
Adapted & created by Shake & Stir Theatre Co
This project is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts
Queensland.
Originally co-produced with QPAC and Brisbane Festival.
Music
Event and Ticket Details
BMEC Members Adults $39 / Concession $33
Non-Members* Adults $45 / Concession $39
* A transaction fee applies
This play contains strong coarse language, mature themes, simulated violence, depictions of self-harm and suicide ideation, and sexual abuse. It also contains strobe lighting, theatrical smoke effects, and the use of stage cigarettes. We understand the themes may be triggering for some people.
This production is part of a national tour. Visit the Shake & Stir Theatre Company website for more details and venues.