Exploring the small joys that make life worth living, JUTE Theatre Company, in association with Ipswich’s THAT Production Company, will open its 2026 season at Bulmba-ja Arts Centre next month (4–14 March) with Every Brilliant Thing, an intimate theatre experience starring Cairns’ own hometown hero Jason Klarwein.
Written by the Olivier-Award-nominated Duncan Macmillan with Jonny Donahoe, and directed by long-time JUTE collaborator Timothy Wynn, the acclaimed one-person play follows a child who begins compiling a list of life’s glimmers to help their mother through a period of depression.
In celebrating the ‘little things’ that make life truly wonderful, Every Brilliant Thing evolves into a warm, audience-inclusive exploration of connection, resilience and hope.
Praised for its sensitivity and emotional generosity that speaks directly to its audience and stays with them long after the lights go down, the Queensland production of Every Brilliant Thing earned Matilda Awards for Best Independent Production and Best Performance in a Leading Role in 2023.
At the heart of the work is Jason Klarwein, whose performance is built on trust, responsiveness and connection with the audience, bringing a rare combination of technical skill and emotional openness to a role that relies on presence, empathy and genuine human exchange.
Klarwein said returning to perform in Cairns carries personal significance.
“From the time I was 14, I’ve connected with JUTE many times throughout my career, so coming back to Cairns with this production really feels like coming full circle,” Klarwein said.
“After years on the road touring across Australia and New Zealand, it’s a thrill to return home and share this wonderful piece with Cairns audiences.”
JUTE Executive Artistic Director Chris Kohn described Every Brilliant Thing as a “warm hug of a show”, reflecting JUTE’s commitment to presenting contemporary theatre that resonates with regional audiences.
“We all have our own list of brilliant things that give meaning to our lives.
“This beautiful production invites audiences to recognise those moments and share them together. Bringing top-notch work like Every Brilliant Thing to Cairns audiences is an important part of what JUTE offers – supporting exceptional regional Queensland talent and delighting our local audiences.”