About Us.

Underground Theatre Company is UQ’s (University of Queensland) resident student theatre company. 

We are dedicated to supporting emerging Meanjin actors, crew and creatives to produce amazing pieces of theatre. UTC aims to provide an inclusive environment for artists to create in, welcoming all young people to join our community. 

UTC produces three full length production per year, as well as a dedicated ‘Writers Room’ staged reading of new works and a short play festival made up of student submissions named ‘Playground Festival’. UTC also facilitates skill-building workshops and networking opportunities which aim to equip artists with necessary skills and network to pursue their ambitions in creative industries. 

History.

UTC has performed in many spaces across Meanjin after its displacement from the union run Schonell Theatre in 2021 after the discovery of asbestos. In 2023, UQ committed to restoring the historic Avalon Theatre which was completed in 2024 to house the drama faculty. Since then, UTC has not been allowed to rehearse, perform or hold workshops in the Avalon despite its low usage. In 2026 UTC will be returning to the Schonell in the “Geoffrey Rush Drama Studio” (more affectionately known as The Cement Box) which we will convert back into a theatre for the length of our productions.

Company History & Photo Archives provided by UQ’s Fryer Library. Production images pictured: ‘Bacchoi, 1970’ & ‘Karaoke Shakespeare, 1992’

Founded in 1912, The University of Queensland Dramatic Society, was the first theatre company in Queensland. 

Though now known as Underground Theatre Company, we have gone by many names over the decades, including: Dramsoc (1960s), UniQue (1970s), University Drama Society (1980s) and Pandemonium Theatre (1990s). 

Over it’s 110+ year history UTC has been a home for hundreds of Meanjin creatives, including notable theatre personalities, Bille Brown, Bryan Nason and Richard Fotheringham. 

Meet the Team

  • Tim Bell

    PRESIDENT

  • Ee Thung

    SECRETARY

  • Cameron Scott

    TREASURER

  • Naomi Hankamer & Jemima Pacey

    FESTIVALS / DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

  • Jade-Monet Calleija

    MARKETING DIRECTOR

  • James Enwright

    OPERATIONS MANAGER

  • Rachael Woodnett

    SOCIAL CONVENOR

  • Adam + Bryn Swain & Malcolm(not pictured)

    SUBCOMMITTEE - SOCIAL

    PRODUCTION MANAGERS

  • Kristen Hoffmann & Peter Rowland & Zoe Mott

    SUBCOMMITEE - FESTIVALS & DEVELOPMENT