JUTE Theatre Company 96 Abbott Street, Cairns City, Queensland 4870

"Jute’s Write Sparks Program far exceeded my expectations. Kathryn Ash, literally walks you through every step of the way from conception of an idea to creating the building blocks and finishing the stage play to perfection. And I don’t use the word “perfection” lightly. Every aspect of your story is carefully scrutinised by Kathryn and fellow playwrights in our small group in an encouraging and nurturing way while at the same time not sacrificing excellence in the quality of work. There is no such thing as being thrown in the deep end and not knowing what to do. Kathryn was always available and approachable to help us navigate any deep waters. I was also grateful for the intense three day mental work-outs to push us to think quickly and creatively. It was complete immersion in writing and creating for three extraordinary days without any interference from day to day chores, family, friends or work. The creative juices kept flowing easily because we never got out of that framework for three whole days. I also loved the way me and my fellow writers participated in reading each other’s scenes. It brought out our work in vivid colour and animation. So exciting for writers to see that. And if that was not enough, on the last day we all got to see professional actors come to the fore to read out our script before an audience. That was priceless! I also have to say that I appreciated Jade McEwan’s superb administrative skills. She is Kathryn’s Personal Assistant and made sure everything proceeded flawlessly. No task was too difficult for Jade. If we encountered any issues that needed sorting such as glitches in the Zoom online connections, she was always calm and collected and resolved everything efficiently. I am gobsmacked by the amount of work and time that goes into preparing the Write Sparks Program. I value Kathryn and Jade’s time and all the staff that helped put this together and last but not least the actors who turned up to support us on the last day of the Program. Absolutely worth it and a fantastic experience."

"Went to see David Hudson's "From Campfire To Stagelight" last Saturday. We absolutely loved it. David Hudson was born to be on the stage. A great natural story teller describing his life experiences. Highly recommended 10/10. Thanks, David. Harvey Minchau"

"I have not visited the JUTE Theatre in some years and am so glad I went tonight. It was a terrific theatre experience with outstanding performances by the four member cast of Sue Chamberlain's Queenslander. I feel that this superb local production should perhaps be toured nationally. It is simply that good. I would encourage locals and visitors alike to go along to anything that is on at JUTE and whereevet possible support local theatre."

"This play could be performed anywhere in the world and receive rave reviews. The script is tight and very very funny, the message clear as a bell and the actors - particularly Mark Sheppard and Norah Bagiri are breathtakingly good and immeasurably lovable in their performances. I was enchanted."

"I have been away from Cairns for a few years and it is great to come back here to find that Jute continues to present some amazing theatre. I have to say I don't always understand them, and sometimes they may be about subjects that I wouldn't normally be interested in, however............. I find their productions, sets and acting so good, that that in itself is theatre enough for me. I'm looking forward to seeing many more superb productions in a beautiful theatre"