The Boys In The Band Review
Even 55 years after the original Australian staging of “The Boys in the Band,” the themes of self-acceptance and queer identity remain as poignant now as they were back then.
“The Boys in the Band," which tells the story of a birthday party that goes awry for a group of gay men in pre-Stonewall era New York, has returned to Melbourne at the stunning Chapel Off Chapel.
Originally, “The Boys in The Band” premiered on Broadway in 1968 when it was still illegal to be gay. The show shocked mainstream audiences, as it was one of the first works ever staged that centred on gay culture, queer identity, and what living in society is like as a queer person. The show initially struggled to find a theatre and actors willing to work on it, as they deemed it detrimental to their careers to play openly gay characters. However, it was a commercial success, ending up with over 1,000 shows, playing in the West End, and a movie adaptation in 1970.
It opened in Australia for the first time in 1969. However, the 1970 movie adaptation, starring the original Broadway cast, was banned in Australia because it was deemed “indecent and obscene.” By that time, the gay liberation movement had gained momentum, leading critics to label both the movie and the play as outdated. This criticism stemmed from the characters' casual use of derogatory terms, alongside some characters' intense self-loathing for being gay and their apparent struggle to accept their identity.
If critics found “The Boys in the Band” outdated in 1972, how could it remain relevant to audiences in 2025?
Although some language in the script is no longer acceptable today, its themes of self-acceptance and queer identity continue to resonate as strongly as they did in 1968.
Though, it is the strength of the casting that makes these stories poignant for contemporary audiences. In the original Broadway cast none of the gay actors were able to come out publicly. Sadly, during the AIDS crisis, five cast members, along with the director and producer, passed away. Today we are lucky to watch James Terry Collection’s production with an openly queer cast and celebrate in authentic representation.
James Terry Collective’s production stars Maverick Newman (Murder For Two, Friends! The Musical Parody, The Comedy of Errors) who stands out with his performance in the show, perfectly leading the ensemble cast
.
Newman embodies Michael who hosts a birthday party for his friend Harold (Mason Gasowski). However, the night turns unexpectedly when Michael's old college roommate, Alan (Mitchell Holland), shows up unexpectedly. Unbeknownst to Alan, Michael and the rest of his friends are gay, and as the night progresses and alcohol flows, events spiral completely out of control.
From the moment Newman steps onto the stage, the anxious nature of his character is evident in the indecisive way he arranges the items around the room and in the constant way he combs his hair throughout the first scene. His detail in movement and comedic timing is spot on, and he seizes every opportunity for a laugh. However, this role also reveals a more dramatic side as the show progresses. He manages this aspect expertly, keeping the audience engaged as Michael confronts Alan throughout the night.
The rest of the cast were equally impressive, yet Emory (Ryan Henry) truly shone with his performance. Each time Henry (SPARK, Volition, Transwoman Kills Influencer) appeared on stage, he exuded joy while embodying a flamboyant character that mesmerised the audience. As the story progresses, the viewers experience every intense moment with him throughout the performance.
The show unfolds in a single-room set crafted by Harry Gill. The silver curtain, gleaming along the back wall, evokes the vibrant disco era of the late 60s, which serves as the backdrop for the play. The balloons and silver ribbons placed randomly around the set contribute to a somewhat somber mood. The recurring use of red in the set and props provides a striking contrast to the silver decor.
Many gay individuals face challenges when they first recognise their sexual orientation, making representations like this play absolutely crucial to fight isolation for audiences who may be going through the same thing. I have no doubt that this 2025 staging has made a powerful impact on individuals and communities. Productions like this underscore the essential role of theatre in enabling us to reflect on the past, remember those who fought before us, and guide us towards making better choices for the future.
5 Stars.
"The Boys in the Band" is on at Chapel off Chapel until 15 March.