Entertainment
14 June, 2025
JUTE appoints new boss
JUTE Theatre Company has appointed a new executive artistic director – Chris Kohn (pictured) – after the retirement of founding artistic director and chief executive Suellen Maunder.
After an extensive national search, Mr Kohn is due to start at the end of June. He brings more than 20 years of experience across Australia’s arts and cultural sectors. A graduate of the Victorian College of the Arts in Directing, he’s recognised for his visionary approach to contemporary theatre and commitment to collaboration, inclusion and regional storytelling.
His career includes leadership roles at Arena Theatre Company in Victoria and La Boite Theatre in Brisbane, with projects presented nationally and internationally, including in New York and Paris. His recent work has included regional and First Nations arts initiatives with Cairns Regional Council, Arts Queensland and Good to Great Schools Australia.
“Suellen’s leadership has ensured, not just JUTE’s survival, but its flourishing over three extraordinary decades,” he said. “She leaves a vibrant company, with top-notch, supremely dedicated staff and board. It is a great honour and privilege to be entrusted with steering this valued company through its next phase. I can’t wait to get started with the team.”
