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Inspiring the Next Generation

Web Banner Inspiring the Next Gen

For 56 years, we have invested in and collaborated with our state's brightest and most brilliant young artists.

These young people have gone on to become artistic directors, creative producers, playwrights, leading actors, lighting designers, stage managers, CEOs and more. We're proud that our Young Artist Program alums maintain fond memories and heartfelt testimonials of the early and enduring impacts of their time in our company.

Queensland Theatre Company's Head of Education & Young People, Fiona MacDonald, champions programs where young people can be themselves, find their tribe and meaningfully explore their artistry.

"When I attended Theatre Residency Week as a dramaturgic from regional Queensland on a scholarship, I couldn't believe I got to spend my holidays in the big smoke, surrounded by peers who were just as curious about theatre as I was. That week made the dream of a life spent living and breathing the performing arts feel like a real possibility. I could never have imagined that one day I'd be responsible for carrying the mantle of a project that's in the DNA of both the company and my own artistic career."

We collaborate with over 4,000 young people in regional and remote areas every year. We also invite more than 2,000 young people into the Company to engage with our season and programs as recognised makers of culture in their own right.

In 2026, we're doubling down on our investment in young artists by expanding our Young Company beyond performers to include high school-aged students who are interested in design and technical production. This is our way of feeding the pipeline of Queensland talent -- out front and behind the scenes -- as we stand shoulder to shoulder with our future leaders and visionaries.

Our marquee programs create pathways for young artists across the state to learn, collaborate and discover their creative potential. From regional classrooms to intensive residencies and mainstage productions, these programs empower the next generation of performers, designers, technicians and theatre makers.

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Theatre Residency Week

Each year, around 100 young people aged 13–18 gather for Theatre Residency Week, an immersive creative experience led by some of Queensland's leading theatre-makers. Across an intensive week of workshops, devising, design and performance-making, participants explore new skills, challenge themselves creatively and form lifelong friendships. The week culminates in a celebratory showcase that reflects the imagination, courage and talent of the next generation of Queensland artists.
Picture QTC Young Company

Young Company

Queensland Theatre Company's Young Company provides emerging performers, designers and technical theatre makers with a unique opportunity to work alongside industry professionals and gain real-world experience creating theatre. Each year, participants collaborate to bring an ambitious production to life, developing their artistic practice, building lasting connections and contributing to a vibrant creative community. In 2026, Young Company expands to support an even broader range of theatre-makers as they prepare to present Matthew Whittet's School Dance.
EYP Mini Masterclass Opt 2

The Scene Project

For students in regional and remote Queensland, access to professional arts experiences can be limited. The Scene Project bridges that gap, bringing professional theatre artists directly into schools and communities. Through creative collaboration, mentorship and performance-making, students build confidence, connection and creative literacy while exploring stories that matter to them. A powerful blend of curriculum, creativity, process and place, The Scene Project gives young people a statewide stage on which to find their voice and share their stories.
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