Brisbane review - Bare: a beautifully realised production

By David Wilson

Book by Jon Hartmere and Damon Intrabartolo

Music by Damon Intrabartolo

Lyrics by Jon Hartmere

Directed by Jo Burnett

Musical Direction by Alex Angus

Choreography by Grace Clarke

Assistant Choreography by Kelsey Todd

https://phoenixensemble.com.au/shows/bare/November 7 to November 22, 2025 at the Pavilion Theatre, Beenleigh Showgrounds, James Street, BeenleighTickets are available at https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1295196

40 adult, $35 concession, $30 for bookings of 10 or more

Bare is a contemporary rock musical based on the book by Jon Hartmere and Damon Intrabartolo, with music by Intrabartolo and lyrics by Hartmere. It premiered in Los Angeles in 2000 at the Hudson Theatre, and opened Off-Broadway in 2004 at the American Theatre of Actors. Over the years, Bare has developed a devoted following for its raw and emotionally charged exploration of identity, faith, sexuality and belonging, through which every character is ultimately laid bare. Its themes remain as powerful and relevant today as they were when first written, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of young people seeking authenticity in the face of societal and religious expectations.Phoenix Ensemble’s production of Bare is strikingly powerful and deeply moving. The creative team has confidently captured both the intimacy and intensity of the story, balancing the vibrant energy of youthful discovery with the darker undertones of secrecy, fear and self-doubt. Director Jo Burnett, Musical Director Alex Angus, Choreographer Grace Clarke and Assistant Choreographer Kelsey Todd have done a brilliant job of capturing the essence of Bare, delivering a beautifully cohesive production that handles the tough and very real subject matter with great sensitivity. The production’s simple yet evocative set design allows the audience to focus squarely on the potent social commentary, the strength of the script, the wonderful music and lyrics and the outstanding performances of this very talented cast.At the heart of the production are the performances of Harley Roy as Jason and Dugald Lowis as Peter. Roy delivers a deeply committed and emotionally charged portrayal, displaying remarkable range and depth throughout. Their performance is filled with energy and authenticity, and their stage presence anchors the production with strength layered with genuine vulnerability. Lowis gives a wonderful characterisation of Peter, crafting a performance that is both heartfelt and courageous. As the emotional centrepiece of the production, Lowis provides the narrative focus around which the story unfolds, offering a compelling balance of fragility and hope. The chemistry between Roy and Lowis is beautifully realised, driving the emotional pulse of the production and making their shared scenes some of the most memorable of the evening.

Rae Rose is exceptional as Ivy, bringing beautiful vocals and subtle emotional nuance to the role. Their performance of All Grown Up is a highlight — rich, expressive, and technically outstanding, and their scene-stealing closure to Act 1 is memorable.Harper Lanigan-Bravery delivers a standout performance as Nadia, perfectly capturing both the humour and heartache of her character. Her comic timing is impeccable, and her performance of Plain Jane Fat Ass is a showstopper!

August Cocks gives a strong and heartfelt performance as Matt, convincingly portraying a young man torn between desire, jealousy and insecurity. His duet with Ivy, Portrait of a Girl, is both tender and beautifully sung, offering a moment of genuine poignancy. Jack Barrett is equally impressive as Lucas, bringing vitality and charisma to the role. His rendition of Wonderland is worth the price of admission!

Roselie Chase as Sister Chantelle provides the perfect counterpoint to the young cast, grounding the production with humour, wisdom and a supremely soulful presence with just the right amount of sass.

The harmonies throughout the production are consistently wonderful — rich, layered and beautifully delivered. Ensemble numbers are performed with tremendous energy and unity, filling the intimate ‘Tin Shed’ with energy and emotion, and making the most of the wonderful live band.

Phoenix Ensemble’s is an emotionally powerful and beautifully realised production, delivered with heart, honesty and talent. The cast and creatives are to be congratulated on this outstanding interpretation of a challenging and deeply resonant work. I thoroughly encourage you to see it.