Shake & Stir Theatre Co’s powerful, must-see stage adaptation of Fourteen, the inspirational true story by best-selling author and award-winning journalistShannon Molloy, will make its Adelaide debut at Adelaide Festival Centre’s Dunstan Playhouse this week – from August 7.
Fourteen is an equal-parts uplifting and heart-wrenching account of Shannon’s experience growing up gay in regional Queensland at an all-boys rugby-mad Catholic school; the bullying, torment, and betrayal as well as the moments of resilience, love and hilarity that punctuated his 14th year.
The production played a sold-out world premiere season as part of the 2022 Brisbane Festival, quickly becoming a festival favourite for audiences and reviewers. The Australian review of the production pronounced it funny, sad and true, saying “this is a play that will save lives.”
Shake & Stir Artistic Director Ross Balbuziente said Fourteen struck a delicate balance between trauma and tribulation and the humour and heart that ultimately triumphed.
Ross Balbuziente: “We owed it to Shannon – and anybody else whose experiences mirror his – not to shy away from the more triggering moments and challenging themes, but we also wanted to show the absolute power friendship and family can have on a 14-year-old.
“The production stays true to the era of Fourteen featuring plenty of ‘90s pop culture references and a mixtape of bangers from Shania Twain to J.Lo.”
Writer Shannon Molloy: “This show really resonates with a broad audience because ultimately, it’s a story about hope, the importance of small acts of kindness, and the power of a fierce mother’s love.
“I’ve always thought Adelaide is the real arts and culture capital of Australia, so I’m thrilled Fourteen is coming to town.”
Shake & Stir’s co-Artistic Directors Nelle Lee and Nick Skubij worked closely with Shannon Molloy to reimagine his memoir for the stage with Skubij directing the production.
Director Nick Skubij: “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. Presenting the story’s delicate and important issues with truth, fearlessness and care is what we are all about with this production– and now taking audiences across the country on this roller coaster of nostalgia is going to be a real highlight.”
Shake & Stir In Association with Adelaide Festival Centre presents Fourteen
Fourteen will be playing at Dunstan Playhouse, Adelaide Festival Centre from 7 August – 10 August.
Tickets available now at https://www.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au/whats-on/fourteen
