The Douglas region’s budding theatre directors have the opportunity to take a leap into professional theatre in Cairns and beyond with the announcement of a new initiative.

Cairns-based JUTE Theatre Company is on the hunt for eight emerging theatre directors to participate in the inaugural JUTE Director Development programme, part of JUTE's Artistic Ignition Season.

Participants will have a golden opportunity to develop their skills with highly regarded contemporary theatre director and academic professor Dr David Fenton, who will deliver a series of Skype lectures, workshops and a one-week residency, combining theory with the practical application of directing and creative leadership.

JUTE Artistic Director and CEO, Suellen Maunder, said the company was looking for directors who had an ambition to bring something new to the theatre sector.

“This programme is designed to provide development opportunities for regional theatre makers to increase the cultural vibrancy of Far North Queensland,” Ms Maunder said.

The application process requires candidates to complete an expression of interest (available on the JUTE Theatre Company website) and must be submitted by close of business on Friday, July 8.

Successful candidates will be required to attend four, two-hour lectures in August and September, culminating in a one-week residency in early October.

For more details on the directors’ programme, visit the JUTE Theatre Company website  or phone 4050 9444.