Shoelace Chaser

Melbourne Theatre Company presents Shoelace Chaser, a coming-of-age comedy-drama playing this May at Southbank Theatre (The Lawler). Recommended for ages 12+ / Years 7–12, this Education & Families Program production explores the pressures of growing up quickly, and the courage it takes to speak up and ask for support.

The story follows 17-year-old Thea, who has spent the past two years quietly caring for her mother, Fiona, while trying to keep her responsibilities hidden from everyone around her, including her new running partner, Syd. As she balances school, care responsibilities, and the expectation of appearing like everything is under control, the play develops into a grounded, relatable story about resilience, connection, and learning to let people in.

Written by AWGIE Award-winning playwright Madelaine Nunn and directed by Green Room Award-winning theatre maker Liv Satchell, the production stars Leigh Lule (Trophy Boys) as Thea, Zoe Boesen (Abigail’s Party) as Fiona, and Elliot Wood (Storked) as Syd. The creative team also includes Bianca Pardo (set and costume design), Thomas Roach (lighting design), and Tom Backhaus (composer and sound design).

Developed through Melbourne Theatre Company’s NEXT STAGE Writers’ Program, Shoelace Chaser highlights contemporary Australian storytelling focused on real experiences of young people navigating responsibility earlier than expected. After its Melbourne season, the production will tour regional Victoria in 2026, including Bendigo, Wodonga, Nunawading, Portland, Drysdale, and Horsham.

This production contains mature themes and occasional coarse language.