The Board of JUTE Theatre Company is delighted to welcome acclaimed theatre maker, director, and arts leader Chris Kohn as its new Executive Artistic Director following the retirement of co-founder, Artistic Director and CEO, Suellen Maunder.
Kohn’s appointment follows an extensive national search and marks the beginning of a new chapter for the company, with the formal handover scheduled later this month.
Kohn brings more than two decades of experience across Australia’s arts and cultural sectors. A graduate of the Victorian College of the Arts in Directing, Kohn is recognised for his visionary approach to contemporary theatre and commitment to collaboration, inclusion, and regional storytelling.
JUTE Chair Gill Townsend said the Board was thrilled to welcome Kohn to lead the company into its next chapter.
“Chris brings with him a remarkable body of work, a deep respect for regional communities, and a passion for developing new voices. His appointment signals an exciting new era for JUTE as we continue to champion diverse stories from across regional Queensland and beyond,” Ms Townsend said.
Kohn’s career spans senior management roles at Arena Theatre Company in Victoria and La Boite Theatre in Brisbane, with projects presented nationally and internationally, including in New York and Paris. His recent work has included key roles in regional and First Nations arts initiatives, including positions with Cairns Regional Council, Arts Queensland and education-focused organisation Good to Great Schools Australia.
Reflecting on his appointment, Kohn said his admiration for JUTE began long before he relocated to Cairns in 2021 and had been a source of inspiration for many years.
“Suellen’s leadership has ensured not just JUTE’s survival, but its flourishing, over three extraordinary decades. She leaves a vibrant company with top-notch, supremely dedicated staff and board.
“It is a great honour and privilege to be entrusted with steering this valued company through its next phase. I can’t wait to get started with the team in forging strong relationships with the audiences, artists, supporters, and communities across regional Queensland and beyond,” Mr Kohn said.
JUTE’s long-serving Artistic Director and CEO, Suellen Maunder, expressed her confidence and excitement about the future:
“After an exhaustive national search, I am delighted with the appointment of Chris Kohn. Finding the right person to carry forward JUTE’s vision and values was paramount.
“With Chris, the Board have found someone whose artistic integrity, insight and care align perfectly with the company’s DNA. His leadership marks an exciting new chapter for JUTE, and I look forward to seeing the company continue to grow, connect and thrive under his direction,” Ms Maunder said.
“I also wish to acknowledge the extraordinary journey JUTE has taken over the years and recognise the early vision and dedication of my fellow founding members, Kathryn Ash and Susan Prince, whose creative contributions, both at that time and throughout the years, have helped shape the company’s direction and enduring spirit.”
The JUTE Board and staff warmly welcome Chris Kohn and extend their deep gratitude to Suellen Maunder for her visionary leadership and lasting contribution to Queensland theatre.
Media Assets:
Click here to access a portrait image of JUTE’s newly appointed Executive Artistic Director, Chris Kohn.
Click here to access portrait image of JUTE’s Chair, Gill Townsend.
Click here to access portrait images of JUTE’s retiring Artistic Director and Chief Executive Officer, Suellen Maunder.
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