Queensland’s regional theatre sector is set for a new phase of growth, with Cairns-based JUTE Theatre Company appointed as the state’s dedicated industry provider under the refreshed Regional Arts Services Network (RASN).
The appointment positions JUTE as one of six organisations delivering free, statewide advisory services to artists and arts workers, with a renewed focus on artform-led support and strengthening creative practice ahead of Brisbane 2032.
Backed by more than three decades of theatre-making in regional Queensland, JUTE’s role builds on its track record of sector development through initiatives such as DARTS (Driving and Activating the Regional Theatre Sector) and the post-COVID Build Back Better recovery program.
Under the new model, RASN shifts from a geographically based service to an artform-specific approach, ensuring theatre makers across regional Queensland have direct access to specialist advice and industry expertise.
JUTE Executive Artistic Director Chris Kohn said the appointment formalises the company’s long-standing commitment to supporting regional artists.
“For more than three decades, JUTE has worked alongside artists in regional communities — developing new work, nurturing careers and building sustainable creative pathways,” Mr Kohn said.
“This appointment allows us to provide structured, goal-focused support to theatre practitioners across Queensland, whether they’re developing new productions, navigating funding pathways, building audiences or strengthening their creative businesses,” he said.
To deliver the service statewide, JUTE has engaged Regional Arts Advisors Jessica Lamb and Cassandra Ramsay, based in Yeppoon and Mackay, respectively. Both are experienced theatre-makers with strong connections to regional communities.
Ms Lamb said the service is designed to meet artists wherever they are in their careers.
“We’re here to help regional theatre makers at any career stage access the skills and tools to bring their ideas to life,” she said.
JUTE’s RASN service is open to artists and arts workers based outside Brisbane and is free to access, supporting those looking to build sustainable careers and deliver locally led arts and cultural experiences across regional Queensland.
“For many, the value lies in connection as much as capability,” said Ms Lamb
“Maybe you’re a newly formed theatre group wanting advice on how to get started; an established artist looking to better understand your audience; a theatre maker seeking local contacts after relocation… or maybe you just want to discuss your experience with another regionally based theatre maker who gets it.
“Cass and I live, work and make theatre in regional Queensland. We know what it’s like, and we’re here to help,” she said.
Ms Ramsay said support could be tailored to both immediate projects and long-term development.
“RASN support can be project-specific, like advice on which upcoming grants to explore or how to develop a viable project budget. But it can also be about broader career development.
“You don’t need to have a particular question to connect with RASN — even if you just want to reach out to say ‘hi, I’m here, and I’m making theatre’, that’s a good starting point,” Ms Ramsay said.
Artists can engage with the service informally or register for more structured support through the RASN online portal via jute.com.au/rasn.
The Regional Arts Services Network is provided by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and aims to enhance creative capacity, career pathways, and access to arts experiences across regional communities.
