The musical opens with Tom, played by Travis Holmes, returning home to Brisbane after time abroad in search of meaning. From here, the show weaves together the lives of five young people navigating identity, love, music, activism, family expectations, and the realities of a rapidly changing world.

Along the way, the cast brings to life defining moments of the Baby Boomer era:

• The optimism and renewal that followed World War II
• The explosive rise of music, art, and cultural expression
• The “flower power” movement and calls for peace
• Anti-war protests and the emotional cost of Vietnam
• The shifting roles of women, families, and social identity

The Vietnam War & the Flower Power Movement

As the story unfolds, audiences witness the growing momentum of youth activism in the late 1960s. Peace, colour, music, and collective hope surged as symbols of resistance.
Many embraced the “flower child” lifestyle — not out of rebellion alone, but out of a desire to transform the world into something kinder.

Through song and storytelling, Baby Boomer honours the idealism, courage, and vulnerability of this time — as well as the real human cost of a war that changed many lives forever.

One of the show’s most poignant arcs follows Mick (Joel O’Brien), who is drafted into the Vietnam War, leaving behind Helen (Harmony Breen) and their newborn child. Their story reflects thousands of Australian families whose lives were marked by separation, uncertainty and sacrifice.

Why the Baby Boomer Story Matters

The 1960s was one of the most transformative decades in history — and it was shaped by a generation who:

• Challenged old social norms
• Fought for peace and equality
• Drove the feminist and LGBTQ+ rights movements
• Transformed music, art, fashion and culture
• Questioned power and reshaped identity
  

Baby Boomer brings these stories to the stage with authenticity, heart and a deep sense of respect for the people who lived them — and curiosity for those learning about them today.