22/01/2025
Thank you Cairns!
It is with heartfelt gratitude and bittersweet emotion that we announce the closure of The Young Company (TYC) on Friday 24th January. Since its inception in 2009, TYC has been a cornerstone of the Cairns arts community, inspiring and empowering young people through the transformative power of theatre.
Our founder and Chairperson, Leigh Boswell, envisioned TYC as a platform for youth to express themselves, build confidence, and connect through creativity. Guided by extensive consultation with local young people, TYC blossomed into a locally multi-award-winning and nationally recognized organisation that touched the lives of countless children and young people aged 5 to 25 and their families.
Over the years, TYC has reached incredible milestones, from performing at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre to participating in international programs like the Australia Council for the Arts Future Leaders Program. We are immensely proud of our innovative productions, our Mainstage Production Program, school initiatives like Headstart to High School, and events like the Platform Youth Theatre Festival which provided young people with opportunities to grow, shine, and find their voices.
Our journey would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our local community, staff, and - most importantly - the amazing young people who brought TYC to life. From workshops to playing host to national touring companies, our commitment to fostering creativity and connection has been at the heart of everything we do.
As we close this chapter, we reflect on the incredible memories, friendships, and artistic achievements that have defined TYC. While our doors are closing, our legacy lives on in the countless lives we’ve touched and the enduring love for theatre we’ve ignited.
Thank you to everyone who has shared this journey with us. Together, we built something truly special. While this chapter ends, the spirit of TYC lives on in all those we’ve inspired.