Fourteen

Fourteen, the inspirational true story of growing up gay in central Queensland, has been transformed into a powerful must-see theatre production, making its world premiere premiere at QPAC’s Cremorne Theatre from 27 August - 17 September, as part of Brisbane Festival.

The page-to-stage adaptation of Shannon Molloy’s best-selling memoir is presented by the acclaimed shake & stir theatre co in conjunction with Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) and Brisbane Festival.

Fourteen is an equal-parts uplifting and heart-wrenching account of Shannon’s experience at an all-boys rugby-mad Catholic school in regional Queensland; the bullying, torment and betrayal as well as the moments of resilience, love and hilarity that punctuated his 14th year.

shake & stir Artistic Director Ross Balbuziente said Fourteen struck a delicate balance between trauma and tribulation and the humour and heart that ultimately triumphed.

The production also stays true to the era of Fourteen, with plenty of ‘90s pop culture references and a mixtape of bangers from Shania Twain to The Spice Girls.

shake & stir’s co-Artistic Directors Nelle Lee and Nick Skubij worked closely with Mr Molloy to reimagine his memoir for the stage with Mr Skubij directing the production.

"The love, compassion and enthusiasm the team has shown me will make this one hell of a show that can’t be missed,” Mr Molloy said. “I can’t wait to see how the darkness and the light, the hurt and the hope – and the camp ‘90s nostalgia – are translated to the stage.”

The Brisbane Festival production marks a homecoming for Brisbane-raised actor Conor Leach (Sequin in a Blue Room, MTC’s SLAP. BANG. KISS.) who plays Shannon in the autobiographical work.

Need to know - Fourteen is recommended for audiences aged 14+ as it contains strong coarse language, mature themes, simulated violence and depictions of sexual abuse.

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