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, transformed into a powerful must-see theatre production playing at Geelong Arts Centre from 30 – 31 August 2024.
Produced by Shake & Stir Theatre Co and led by Conor Leach (Sequin in a Blue Room, SLAP.BANG.KISS) as Shannon Molloy, this story chronicles Shannon’s experience as 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.
A moving coming-of-age memoir about adversity and tragedy, Fourteen is also a queer celebration 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.
Packed with plenty of humour and heart, Fourteen tackles heavy themes and raw emotion, this theatre piece finds the perfect balance of nuanced storytelling with a nostalgic mixtape of your favourite 90’s bangers.
Spinning the likes of the Spice Girls, Britney Spears, JLo, Kylie Minogue, Vanessa Amorosi, Shania Twain, Toni Braxton & CeCe Peniston, this production will leave your heart full, smile wide and soul ready for a boogie.
“To have the opportunity to take a story like Shannon’s and bring it to life with the phenomenal cast that we have assembled is a true joy,” said Director Nick Skubij.
“Presenting the story’s delicate and important issues with truth, fearlessness and care is what we are all about with this one – and now taking audiences across the country on this roller coaster of nostalgia is going to be a real highlight.”
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.
“Utterly captivating, heart wrenching, and witty, this adaption of Shannon Molloy’s memoir was lovingly brought to life.” – Theatre Travels
Director: Nick Skubij | Featuring: Will Carseldine, Helen Cassidy, Karen Crone, Judy Hainsworth, Conor Leach, Tom Oliver, Steven Rooke | 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 | Creative Producer: Ross Balbuziente | Adaptors: Nelle Lee, Nick Skubij with Shannon Molloy | Writer: Shannon Molloy
Fourteen
The Play House – Geelong Arts Centre, 50 Little Malop Street, Geelong
Season: 30 – 31 August 2024
Bookings: www.geelongartscentre.org.au
Image: Conor Leach stars in Fourteen – photo by David Fell