In Conversation with SEAN DONEHUE | BEARDED.

In this week's Backstage Blog, we chat with writer & performer Sean Donehue about making a musical and their upcoming production, BEARDED, opening at Theatre Works WEDNESDAY 8th January.

Q. What should audiences expect when they come to see Bearded.?

A: High energy, high camp and a whole lot of heart. We want audiences to see themselves reflected back in these young characters, and to root for them, and to laugh with them, and to cry with them. Whilst in many ways this show is by queer people, for queer people; its message is universal. It’s about love and family, and we want people to walk away feeling seen and moved and with a melody in their head that won’t leave them for at least 4-5 business days.

Q. If Bearded. were to have a Spotify Wrapped, what would it look like?

A: Top artists:

1. Jason Robert Brown

2. The 1975

3. Kylie Minogue

4. Pasek and Paul

5. Missy Higgins

Top Songs:

1. It’s Not Living If It’s Not With You - The 1975

2. Waving Through A Window - DEH *sigh*

3. If I Didn’t Believe In You - The Last 5 Years

4. Anytime You Need A Friend C&C Club Version - Mariah Carey

5. Silk Chiffon - MUNA

Total Listening Hours: Ate-y Ate thousand

Genres: Pink Pilates Princess Strut Pop and Weaponised BFA Core

Q. The music for Bearded. is so unique to the show. Did you have specific references when writing the music?

A: All of the above haha. No, but in all honesty - I wanted the music to draw on a lot of references that speak specifically to the variety of characters in the show. Particularly for Ace and Bet, I wanted their melodic themes to compliment each other and to feel modern. There are clear pop references like The 1975 and MUNA, as well as the modern MT greats JRB and Pasek and Paul. With the older more conservative characters I wanted to reference more dated music styles eg. Sit Down You’re Rocking The Boat or Mr. Caldwell. I also wanted to lean heavily into the Disco sound synonymous with queer clubs, for example the song Open, Let Go is a nod to I Feel Love by Donna Summer. There are also purposely ironic gospel/religious melodies that pair with heavy rock guitars (aka ‘the devil’s music’) as a subtle nod to the hypocrisy that weaves throughout the show. Whilst the score is full of a vast array of references, it’s clear that Bearded still has its own sound. I think that speaks to the fact that Ace and Bet have clear themes that belong to them and they permeate throughout the show transcendent of genre. They lead this show. Bearded is told through their voices, both musically and literally.

Q. What do you want audiences to take away from Bearded.?

A: We want audiences to leave feeling joyous, empowered, introspective and with a persistent melody in their end that just WILL NOT LEAVE. We are so aware of the impact of this show on both the cast and the people who watch it. There is no right or wrong way to engage with the work, and our goal has always been to lead with truth and heart and we hope that translates for every one who sees this show.

Q: What has been the most memorable moment throughout the creation / rehearsal process?

A: I still find it absolutely INSANE that people know and love the words and songs that I wrote in my bedroom 5 years ago. Every day of rehearsals has been a joy, yet I will never get over how awesome it feels to see people coming in and auditioning for this show. Watching every tape and every callback and knowing how much time, effort and heart went into them is a feeling I will truly never get over!