@ jute_theatre . Nov 27

We`re at @tropicalinnovationfestival Indigenous Business and the Arts Expo at the Pier today until 5pm. There are 50 stalls and the place is buzzing! Come and say hi!

@ jute_theatre . Nov 10

Write Sparks Online Spotlight: Stella McMahon

Stella McMahon’s new supernatural dramedy, "Ghost of a Chance", explores themes of ageism, self-worth, and the courage to start anew at any stage in life. Set in the cellar of a historic home turned tourist attraction, the play follows 63-year-old Stacey, who decides to apply for an unconventional job, determined to prove she has more to offer than meets the eye. As she navigates a quirky job interview with the skeptical owner and her assistant, strange happenings blur the line between Stacey’s past and a potential haunting. Is Stacey merely a captivating storyteller, or is a spirit truly watching over her?

"Ageism often renders people invisible, especially as they grow older," says McMahon. "With this play, I want to bring visibility to those experiences and start meaningful conversations around this issue.”

Originally from the UK and now based in Queensland, Stella has a diverse background in theatre, having co-authored "The Shed" and two her plays, "Zippy Tie and Lots of Sauce" and "Stalker" were adapted as part of a feature film "Lost and Found". Her recent work includes the monologue "Smartarse, A Memoir", which debuted with regional Queensland’s GRIT tour in 2024, and "Settling In - Four Migrant Stories", performed at the CQMA`s Tastes of the World Festival. With "Ghost of a Chance", Stella brings humour and suspense to the stage, blending personal narrative with a dash of the supernatural.

@ jute_theatre . Nov 9

Ready or Not, by the incredibly talented Ainslee Palmer, is a deeply personal, and, at times, funny exploration of the stories we hide, the legacy we carry, and the strength it takes to survive. Featuring cultural nods to the 90s and 2000s, this one-woman tour-de-force will move you, challenge you, and stay with you long after the curtain falls. Produced by White Rabbit Theatre, JUTE is proud to be hosting this play for two nights in Cairns, this Thursday and Friday. Thursday`s premiere includes a complimentary drink and workshop after the show!

To book: https://events.humanitix.com/host/5fbc8930f96bf0000be4d96a

@ jute_theatre . Nov 8

Write Sparks Online Spotlight: Matt Young

Matt Young, a talented actor and monologist, presents "The Sky is Falling", a heartfelt and insightful play designed for young audiences. Set in regional Queensland, the play follows Gregory, an 11-year-old navigating school life as a child of same-sex parents. Through his encounters with various characters—from his teacher and friends to family members—Gregory faces the challenges and biases that come with his family structure. With one actor portraying Gregory and another playing a host of supporting roles, this two-hander brings humour, warmth, and resilience to the stage as Gregory learns to embrace his identity.

Young explains, "As a father who raised two boys in a same-sex parented family, my children have to "come out" every day, which is at times easy, and at times hard. I have written many autobiographical stories for stage performance, many dealing with my sexuality, and mainly for an adult audience. I`m keen to explore what I imagine my kids` experiences must have been, and to imagine a story centred around their experience."

An accomplished actor based in Blackall, QLD, Matt has appeared onstage and on screen in productions like "The Producers", "Mamma Mia", and "The Pacific". Known for his autobiographical storytelling, he brings depth to his work by drawing on personal experience, including past pieces on sexuality and family life. Matt’s background also includes teaching through Tukuna Acting Club and directing musicals at Central Queensland University’s Conservatorium of Music.