Entertainment
25 October, 2026
Childhood holiday tale adapted for the stage
JUTE Theatre Company is preparing a series of theatre projects and performances in Cairns, including new First Nations storytelling, a historical drama and a regional touring production.
Among its major projects is ‘Three Dresses’, adapted by Guugu Yimithirr playwright Chenoa Deemal from the award-winning children’s book by Hope Vale artist and author Wanda Gibson.
Based on Gibson’s childhood memories, the production explores family, culture, connection to Country, and the experiences of the Stolen Generations.
Combining theatre, music, puppetry and visual storytelling in English and Guugu Yimithirr, the production is set to premiere in 2027.
Following an earlier development period in Hope Vale with local Elders, students and cultural contributors, the creative team will undertake a further four weeks of development across Cairns and Hopevale in October and November.
A work-in-progress showing is scheduled for Cairns Performing Arts Centre on 11 November, with a community showing in Hopevale to follow.
Meanwhile, playwright Monica Stevens’ ‘The Brown Blouse’ will return to Bulmba-ja Arts Centre on 27 November, following an earlier developmental showing in August.
Set during the Cape York gold rush in 1886, the play follows Thamali, a young Aboriginal woman, and Yun Hei, a Chinese migrant, as they explore protection, resistance and cross-cultural connection.
The November showing will present the first full draft, featuring professional actors, designers and other creatives.
JUTE will also welcome TheatreiNQ’s ‘The Assignment’, written and directed by Terri Brabon, for performances at Bulmba-ja Arts Centre on 26 and 27 November.
Set in North Queensland in 1989, the coming-of-age comedy follows Jamie Kelly after she is accused of cheating on a school assignment.
The Cairns season is supported by JUTE’s DARTS – Driving and Activating the Regional Theatre Sector initiative, with five original cast members touring with emerging artists from host regions.
JUTE is also supporting regional theatre makers through RASN, with Cass Ramsay and the new Theatre Advisor, Dr Sharon Hogan, offering free individual consultations and workshops.
The company’s upcoming developments will offer audiences and regional artists opportunities to contribute to new productions, including Three Dresses, ahead of its planned 2027 premiere.
