Flipping the Script: How These Creatives Took Control of Their Theatre Careers

Sometimes, the best ideas are born over burritos and margaritas—and that’s exactly how the 23rd Theater Co came to life.

Riley, Flynn, and Charlie, three freshly graduated creatives from JMC Academy, weren’t ready to sit around waiting for auditions to roll in. Instead, with a nudge from their teachers and a shared love for storytelling, they decided to build something of their own: a theatre company focused on originality, community, and giving other grads a real shot at making theatre happen.

Their first production? Rope, a moody, suspense-filled thriller by Patrick Hamilton that unfolds in real time. Think Hitchcock vibes with a Gen Z twist—and a whole lot of heart behind the scenes.

🎭 Rope by 23RD Theatre Co

📍 Irene Mitchell Studio, South Yarra

🗓️ Until 22 March 

🎟️ stmartinsyouth.com.au

A British psychological thriller that draws inspiration from the notorious Leopold and Loeb case, which also served as a muse for Alfred Hitchcock's 1948 film.The play delves into the dark depths of human nature and morality, centering on two young men, Wyndham Brandon and Charles Granillo, who believe they have committed the perfect

crime—murdering an innocent victim and hiding the body in a chest while hosting a

dinner party. As the evening unfolds, the tension escalates in a chilling exploration of

power, guilt, and psychological manipulation.

RILEY ATWELL

Riley Atwell Is A Melbourne-Based Actor And Co-Founder Of 23RD Theatre Co, who recently graduated JMC Academy with a Bachelor of Creative Arts. “Rope” Is Riley’s Producer Debut And He’s Very Nervous And Keen For Everyone To See The Production. It’d Be An Understatement To Say That He’s Simply Enjoyed This Whole Process; Because He’s Adored Every Second And Feels Nothing But Inspiration To Continue This Producer Journey Beyond “Rope” With The 23RD Theatre Co. For Many More Shows For Many More Years To Come.

 

CHARLI SAMPSON

Charli Sampson (they/she) is an ambitious gay actress diving into the realm of producing to gain a new avenue of

experience. During her high school years Charli worked backstage at dance school concerts and dance competitions, when she herself wasn’t on the stage. Gaining an interest for the other side of theatre, the production side. After graduating from JMC Academy with a Bachelor of Creative Arts for Acting they became one of the founding member of the 23rd Theatre Company, working behind the scenes as a producer on the companies first ever production, “Rope”. They are also rehearsing for the Australian Shakespeare Companies Graduate Players program production of “A Midsummer Nights Dream” as Hermia, which will tour to Prague in May of this year.

 

FLYNN LHUEDE

Flynn Lhuede is an actor exploring the realm of producing and is constantly looking to learn and improve as much as he can. Flynn recently graduated JMC Academy with a Bachelor of Creative Arts for Acting and is one of the founders of the 23rd Theatre Company. While working on this production of “Rope” as Charles Granillo, a producer and treasurer, he is also rehearsing to play Oberon in “A Midsummer Nights Dream” for the Australian Shakespeare Company’s Graduate players which will tour to Prague later this year.

 

For the latest theatre updates and behind-the-scenes insights, follow me on Instagram https://instagram.com/AndrewGShowtime