Byron Theatre Company Unveils 2026 Season: A New Chapter for Regional Storytelling
Byron Theatre Company has announced its 2026 season, deepening its commitment to supporting regional artists and creating new pathways for locally made theatre.
Byron Theatre Company’s 2026 program marks an exciting new chapter for the region’s performing arts scene, combining professional training, new work development and a major mainstage production: Tirra Lirra by the River.
The season also coincides with the appointment of Bianca Sirianni as Byron Theatre’s first Creative Producer , a new role that will oversee artistic programming, partnerships and creative projects that strengthen the Byron Community Centre’s cultural impact and community engagement.
Building on the success of its critically acclaimed debut, Displace I Call Home, the company’s second season strengthens its role as a creative hub where regional artists can learn, collaborate and bring original Australian stories to life.
ONGOING PROGRAM – Theatre Makers Masterclass Series
Following a successful 2025 launch, the Theatre Makers Masterclass Series continues in 2026, offering accessible, high -calibre training with nationally respected artists.
In 2025, celebrated Bangarra dancer Waangenga Blanco led a sold -out inaugural workshop on physical storytelling. Acclaimed director and writer, and recently appointed Chair of Creative Australia, Wesley Enoch, will host a masterclass exploring truth in performance and connection through storytelling on November 22nd and 23rd.
“Acting isn’t just about performance, it’s about community ,” says Enoch. “ In this workshop, we’ll explore the skills of truth -telling, presence and connection. Qualities that matter on stage and in everyday life. Byron Bay has such a vibrant creative spirit, and I’m excited to work with local artists to nurture their craft, their courage and their voice.”
The 2026 Masterclass line -up will be announced early next year, with bookings available via the Byron Theatre website.
NEW PROGRAM – The Storytellers Program
Launching in 2026, the Storytellers Program will nurture regional playwrights and theatre makers, guiding new works from page to stage.
Selected participants will receive mentorship, dramaturgical support and professional development, with the opportunity to progress to full production with Byron Theatre Company.
This initiative addresses a critical gap for regional artists, providing support to develop and present new work locally, without the need to relocate to metropolitan centres. Applications will open early next year.
NEW MAINSTAGE PRODUCTION – Tirra Lirra by the River
In June 2026, Byron Theatre Company will stage its second major production, Tirra Lirra by the River , a bold new adaptation of Jessica Anderson’s classic Australian novel.
Co -created and co -directed by Heather Fairbairn and Kate Wild , and starring acclaimed actor Toni Scanlan (Water Rats ), the production spans the 20th century from jazz -age Sydney to post -war London. Using cutting -edge design and immersive audio -visual effects, it delivers a kaleidoscopic meditation on memory, imagination and belonging.
“We are building on the rich tapestry of theatre -making that already exists in the Northern Rivers ,” says Bianca Sirianni, Creative Producer of Byron Theatre Company. “ Through my own journey as an artist, I know what kinds of support and opportunities make the greatest difference. My hope is to advocate for regional artists and create experiences that strengthen both audiences and theatre makers, ensuring local stories and local talent can thrive right here, in their own community .”
The 2026 season underscores Byron Theatre Company’s ongoing commitment to developing new work, supporting local talent and building a stronger regional theatre network.
ABOUT BYRON THEATRE COMPANY
Byron Theatre Company is the producing arm of Byron Theatre , based in the Byron Community Centre on Arakwal Country of the Bundjalung Nation. Building on the region’s long tradition of theatre -making, the company was founded to create original Australian works, support regional artists and strengthen the Northern Rivers’ reputation as one of the most vibrant creative communities on the east coast.
More info and tickets: www.byrontheatre.com