In the heart of Gympie, a group of young creatives is rewriting what regional theatre can be. With bold new voices, original work, and a passion for community storytelling, Perseverance Street Theatre Company is giving emerging artists the tools and stage to shine.
One of their standout projects this year, Boys at the Back of the Bus, is an original production written, directed, and performed entirely by artists under the age of 25 as part of the company’s 2025 Emerging Talent Series – made possible with support from the Milford Community Connection Program.
Supporting Expression in Small Communities
Joanne Thomas, Special Projects Manager at Sage Financial Planning, nominated the theatre company for the grant after attending nearly all their shows over the years. Through that continued engagement, she developed a deep appreciation for the company’s commitment to youth development and regional storytelling.
“In small towns, youth don’t have a lot of opportunities for expression, growth, and connection through the arts,” says Joanne. “So, when there’s a community group providing this, it’s important to support them.”
A Shared Belief in the Power of the Arts
Joanne’s nomination was rooted in the belief that investing in creative outlets helps strengthen identity and connection in regional communities. For Perseverance Street Theatre Company, that kind of support brings both relief and renewed purpose.
“It gave us the certainty we needed to plan with confidence and to focus on the art and the artists, rather than the bills,” says the company’s artistic director, Dr Sharon Hogan. “It’s a moment of both relief and renewed energy when your work is recognised and supported in such a tangible way.”
Funding That Fuels Creation
The Milford grant covered key operational and creative costs, including rent, insurance, set construction, and subsidised training. Without this support, the Emerging Talent Series and Boys at the Back of the Bus wouldn’t have been possible.
The production involved 20 young people, who had the chance to build skills in acting, writing, directing and technical theatre. “This grant supports not just the creation of a show, but the development of a future generation of regional artists,” says Sharon.
Creating a Stage Where Everyone Belongs
The impact of the program extends far beyond the spotlight. The company has seen first-hand how participation helps young people grow in confidence and form lifelong bonds.
“I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative social bonds formed within our casts – bonds that extend into lifelong friendships and real-world confidence,” says Sharon.
Joanne adds, “The best thing about the Milford Community Connection Program is that they support communities of all sizes, ensuring everyone feels included and valued, no matter how big or small their community is.”
Looking Ahead
For both the company and Joanne, this support is about more than one production. It’s about laying the groundwork for a thriving regional arts culture that empowers the next generation.
“Being part of this program means our regional, youth-led voices are being heard and validated on a wider stage,” says Sharon. “It connects us to a wider network of changemakers who are dedicated to building vibrant communities through genuine connection and contribution.”
About Perseverance Street Theatre Company
Based in Gympie, Queensland, Perseverance Street Theatre Company is a regional arts organisation committed to telling local stories and developing the creative capacity of young people.
Through initiatives like the Emerging Talent Series, the company creates platforms for artists under 25 to produce original work, collaborate with professionals, and grow both artistically and personally. Their work is rooted in community and powered by the belief that storytelling has the potential to transform lives.
