This January, Theatre Works in St Kilda will host the premiere of Bearded, a new musical by Sean Donehue and Nick Waxman.
Set during Australia’s 2017 marriage equality debate, the show explores the journey of Bet and Ace, two close friends navigating the complexities of family expectations and societal pressures.
The musical tells the heartfelt story of Bet, whose father is a conservative political candidate, and her best friend Ace, as they navigate family expectations, societal scrutiny, and the courage to be themselves.
Set against the backdrop of fierce public debate, the musical explores the intimate struggles of two young people caught in the middle, each grappling with their identities in a world that demands they choose between loyalty and self-expression
With a fresh, electric score and vibrant energy, Bearded captures the resilience, humour, and heartbreak of Bet and Ace’s journey as they seek love and acceptance. Forced to keep their true selves hidden, they juggle family loyalty and self-discovery in a way that’s both deeply personal and universally resonant.
At once funny and poignant, Bearded celebrates the power of friendship, resilience, and the joy of living openly—even when the world seems set against it. This powerful new musical is a tribute to the bravery it takes to stand up, speak out, and love freely in a time of change and challenge
Bearded runs from January 8-18, 2025, at Theatre Works, 14 Acland Street, St Kilda. It’s a celebration of friendship, identity, and the journey to acceptance. For more information visit beardedmusical.com
