Critically acclaimed play arrives in Geelong

"Fourteen" balances its heavy themes with humour and a soundtrack of the 90s hits and bubblegum pop tracks that Molloy attributes to saving his life. Photos: JOEL DEVEREUX

A critically acclaimed theatre show based on the best-selling memoir of award-winning Sydney journalist Shannon Molloy will hit the Geelong stage this month.

Produced by Shake & Stir Theatre Co, Fourteen chronicles the experiences of a 14-year-old Molloy, played by Conor Leach (Sequin in a Blue Room, SLAP.BANG.KISS), growing up gay in an extremely homophobic town in regional Queensland.

The coming-of-age story follows Molloy through a year of self-discovery set against a backdrop of unrelenting and brutal bullying at the hands of his peers at an all-boys rugby-mad Catholic school, and betrayal from the adults that were meant to protect him.

At its core, however, Fourteen is a queer celebration of resilience and hope, featuring the love of Molloy’s close-knit group of friends, fiercely protective family and a few S Club 7 bangers.

Tackling both adversity and tragedy, Fourteen balances its heavy themes with humour and a soundtrack of the 90s hits and bubblegum pop tracks that Molloy attributes to saving his life, spinning the likes of the Spice Girls, Britney Spears, Kylie Minogue, Vanessa Amorosi, Shania Twain and CeCe Peniston.

Conor Leach as 14-year-old Shannon Molloy.

Geelong Arts Centre chief executive and creative director Rhys Holden said he was excited to welcome Fourteen to Geelong.

“Shannon’s brave journey of self-discovery as a queer teenager in rural Queensland is both heart-wrenching and uplifting.

“This is a beautiful piece of theatre, complete with an amazing 90s soundtrack.

“I can’t wait for you to experience this celebration of resilience and hope.”

Geelong Arts Centre’s head of programming Penny McCabe said the show offered another example of performing arts venue’s dedication to bringing high-quality works to Geelong.

“We look forward to continuing to provide access to impactful and entertaining performances that resonate with diverse audiences.”

Fourteen’s short three-show run will play at Geelong Arts Centre’s The Play House theatre between August 30 and August 31.

For more information, or to grab your tickets, head to geelongartscentre.org.au or phone the Box Office on 1300 251 200 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.