Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music celebrates 30 years with high-energy musical

13 June 2026

Eve Pratt in rehearsals for &Juliet — CQUniversity student Eve Pratt in rehearsals at the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music.

CQUniversity’s Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) is marking 30 years of excellence with a vibrant production of & Juliet – a global hit musical bursting with pop anthems, fresh storytelling and outstanding student talent.

Set to take the stage in Mackay this June, the production is directed by CQCM alumnus and internationally acclaimed theatre-maker Liam McIlwain, making it both a celebration of the Conservatorium’s legacy and a showcase of its future. Created by Emmy Award-winning writer David West Read (Schitt’s Creek), & Juliet reimagines Shakespeare’s classic love story, asking a bold and empowering question: what if Juliet chose to live?

Instead of a tragic ending, audiences are taken on a high-energy, feel-good journey as Juliet steps into a new chapter of independence, self-discovery and second chances. Her story unfolds through a soundtrack of chart-topping hits from legendary songwriter Max Martin, including Since U Been Gone, Roar, …Baby One More Time and Can’t Stop the Feeling!, delivering a contemporary musical experience that has captivated audiences worldwide. Since its premiere in London’s West End and subsequent Broadway debut in 2022, the production has earned international acclaim, including nine Tony Award nominations.

For director Liam McIlwain, returning to CQCM represents a full-circle moment. A graduate of the Conservatorium before going on to train at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA), he has built an extensive career across Australia and internationally, with directing credits including Dear Evan Hansen, Mary Poppins, Come From Away and Rent. He has also worked on productions of Les Misérables across the globe and most recently served as Resident Director on the Australian tour of Pretty Woman: The Musical.

Director Liam McIlwain with CQCM students in rehearsals.

“Coming back to CQCM feels surreal,” Mr McIlwain said. “I am back on a campus I first arrived at 25 years ago, and although the world is so different the excitement, uncertainty and possibility these students feel as they take the stage is the same. I’m really inspired by the passion of all 19 students, and it feels special to be working with them.”

He said the story at the heart of the musical is particularly meaningful for emerging performers finding their place in the industry. “Although it’s a spin on a very old story, &Juliet feels very current. At its heart, it’s a show about a young person finding their voice and stepping into their power. It’s rare to find a musical that so clearly reflects contemporary culture, and one that does so with such humour,” he said.

The production provides CQCM students with the opportunity to work alongside a director operating at the highest levels of the performing arts industry, gaining valuable insight into professional rehearsal and production processes.

Lead performer Eve Pratt, who plays Juliet, said the role had been a defining experience.

“It’s my first leading lady role, so it’s been pivotal for my development as an artist,” she said. “It’s vocally demanding and has really pushed my acting skills.

“She starts off quite sassy — even a little bratty, with good reason — but finding a version of her that feels truthful has been really exciting. Now she feels quite comfortable to play.”

Eve Pratt performing in rehearsals for &Juliet — CQUniversity student Eve Pratt in rehearsals at the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music.

Ms Pratt said working with Mr McIlwain and studying at CQCM had provided valuable real-world experience.

“Liam runs the show like any other professional production, it’s the best kind of learning environment,” she said.

“CQCM is very hands-on — I’ve already had amazing opportunities, from performing West Side Story in Malaysia to working on this production.”

Her message to audiences is simple:

“Come along — you won’t be disappointed. & Juliet has something for everyone. It’s uplifting, funny and full of heart.”

The production forms part of celebrations marking 30 years since CQCM became part of CQUniversity, highlighting its role as a leading regional centre for music and theatre training.

Don’t miss this bold and uplifting production celebrating student talent, global storytelling and 30 years of CQCM — because the only thing more tragic than Romeo and Juliet’s original ending would be missing this one.