CQCM graduates premiere performance on local stage
Alumni from CQUniversity’s Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) are returning to their roots with a new musical production titled Duello – Movies to Musicals.
Bachelor of Theatre graduate Jameson Butler and Bachelor of Music graduate Ben Scott will debut Duello at the CQCM Theatre in Mackay later this month (26 July) in a genre-blending combination of vocals and the cello.
“What started as a simple duet idea turned into a shared vision. We poured our hearts and souls into shaping it, and what emerged was a performance that feels raw, powerful, and deeply personal,” Jameson said.
“The highlight of Duello is its emotional authenticity. It allows us to bring our passion to life on stage in a way that feels both vulnerable and electrifying.
“And returning to CQCM with this show, to the very place where our love for music was nurtured, makes it all the more meaningful.”
Jameson credited their studies at CQU for preparing them for the practical and creative exploration involved in bringing Duello to the stage.
“The program didn’t just train us technically; it encouraged us to think independently, take risks, and embrace new artistic challenges,” she said.
“We were also fortunate to learn from inspiring mentors who pushed us to keep evolving, seize opportunities, and trust our creative instincts. That mindset has been crucial in adapting to an innovative performance style like Duello, which blends both of our disciplines in a deeply collaborative way.”
The performance also showcases the work of fellow CQCM alumnus Paul Tabone, who is drawing from his extensive international theatre and tour experience to produce the local production.
Since graduating from a Bachelor of Music Theatre in 2009, Paul has established himself internationally as a leader in the industry, having performed more than 1800 times in The Phantom of The Opera on London’s West End.
Jameson said that the renowned tenor offered the duo invaluable insight into what it takes to build a successful musical brand.
“Paul was the visionary who first pitched the idea of a soprano and cello duet, sparking the beginning of this project. He has been a steadfast supporter of our ambition to become performers in what can be a daunting industry, guiding us as we worked to create something truly beautiful,” Jameson said.
“Our preparation and rehearsal schedule in the lead-up to this debut has been intense, chaotic at times, with tight deadlines and conflicting commitments. Pushing through the challenges has only deepened our connection to the work and strengthened our collaboration.”
Having created and toured his own productions throughout his career, Paul said his passions have expanded to producing shows with young artists to help them gain experience and build their careers.
“Producing has always felt like a natural extension of my work as an artist because it gives me the freedom to create opportunities – not just for myself but for others as well.
“I am now focused on supporting young artists through The Artists Lab, an initiative designed to provide students the skills and confidence to succeed on the international stage, he said.
“My studies at CQU laid the foundation for this, teaching me about discipline, collaboration, and the business side of the arts – all skills that I carry into producing today.”
By combining their diverse backgrounds, Paul said Duello highlights the transformative power of artistic collaboration and the strong ethos built through their shared education.
“I know firsthand how tough and confusing this industry can be when you’re starting out. I’ve seen so many incredibly talented people give up simply because they weren’t given the right guidance, tools, or opportunities,” he said.
“The Artists Lab is about changing that. It’s about giving young artists real skills, professional mentorship, and a community that supports them as they navigate the industry. I want them to thrive, not just survive.
“Part of our ethos at The Artists Lab is that no artist should be sitting around waiting for the next gig – we encourage them to create their own work and stay proactive. That’s exactly what Jameson has done here, and it’s great to see her collaborating with other CQCM graduates to bring this to life.”
Tickets are available for purchase online. To book, visit the CQCM website
