The Torres Strait Regional Authority’s (TSRA) Gab Titui Cultural Centre proudly presents the return of The Boy Who Found His Way Home and the premiere of its highly anticipated sequel The Mystery of Aunty’s Dead Cat this June.
Written by Torres Strait Islander author and playwright Jillian Boyd-Bowie (Bid Buai – Dolphin People and Bakir Bi), the much-loved production premiered to more than 500 people at Gab Titui’s Open Air Theatre in 2025, delighting audiences with its unique blend of Torres Strait humour, family dynamics and cultural storytelling. This year, families will have the rare opportunity to experience both parts of the story.
Produced by Grin and Tonic Theatre Productions, the cast and crew will return to the Gab Titui stage before taking the production to Badu and later debuting at the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF).
Making his professional theatre debut in the lead role of Iothamo is emerging Torres Strait Islander actor Likiki Millet, a recent Bachelor of Acting graduate of the Australian Performing Arts Conservatory. Likiki has been involved in theatre since high school, performing with School to Stage productions at Brisbane Powerhouse and QPAC before completing his formal training.
Joining him on stage is acclaimed Torres Strait Islander actor Jimi Bani, alongside Simon Tesorieri as beloved Iceblock, Jason Klarwein, and new-comer Richard Bani as Bala D.
Likiki Millet said stepping into the role of Iothamo was both an honour and a career kick-starter.
“Growing up, I always loved performing and storytelling, so to be trusted with the role of Iothamo in a Torres Strait story that means so much to our communities is incredibly special. I’m excited to bring this character to life and share plenty of laughs with audiences while celebrating who we are and where we come from.”
Returning cast member Jimi Bani said audiences could expect even more laughter and chaos in the next chapter.
“The response to The Boy Who Found His Way Home last year was incredible,” Mr Bani said.
“People saw themselves, their families and their communities in these characters.
“Bringing the story back and introducing a brand-new mystery for audiences to solve together makes this return even more exciting,” he said.
Playwright Jillian Boyd-Bowie said seeing both productions presented together was a proud moment.
“These stories come from the everyday humour, language and experiences that make Torres Strait families so unique,” Ms Boyd-Bowie said.
“It’s wonderful to see the characters continue their journey and for audiences to experience both chapters of the story back-to-back in one night.
“I hope people leave feeling entertained, connected and proud of the stories we’re telling.”
TSRA Chairperson George Nona said supporting Torres Strait storytelling remained central to Gab Titui’s role as the region’s cultural keeping place.
“Gab Titui Cultural Centre is committed to creating opportunities for Torres Strait artists, performers and storytellers to share their work with local, national and international audiences,” Mr Nona said.
“Productions like these showcase the incredible creative talent we have in our region while ensuring our stories, humour, language and culture continue to be celebrated through contemporary theatre.”
Part One: The Boy Who Found His Way Home
Young Iothamo has been living large in the city with his PS5, air-conditioning and modern comforts. When he returns to the Torres Strait, he finds himself like a fish out of water, reconnecting with family, culture and identity. Alongside local character Bala D, he navigates fishing competitions, outspoken Aunties, mango season chores and unexpected adventures in a heartfelt and hilarious story of homecoming.
Part Two: The Mystery of Aunty’s Dead Cat
When Bala D heads to Brisbane for a visit, he finds himself overwhelmed by city life. Escalators, skyscrapers and unfamiliar surroundings are enough to cause confusion, but things become even stranger when Aunty Loice suspects her beloved cat, Salty Plum, has been fed forbidden plum food.
Determined to solve the mystery, Bala D and his cousin Iothamo become amateur detectives, investigating suspicious snacks, questionable suspects and one very odd city detective. Packed with laughs, surprises and Torres Strait humour, the mystery unfolds in a story where everyone is a suspect and nothing is quite as it seems.
Show 1 (part 1&2)
Date: Friday, 19 June 2026
Time: Doors at 6pm for 6:30pm showtime
Where: Gab Titui Cultural Centre, Thursday Island
Return Ferry times for HI & HMD families: 9:00pm
Register with Gab Titui Cultural Centre
Show 2 (part 1&2)
Date: Saturday, 20 June 2026
Time: Doors at 6pm for 6:30pm showtime
Where: Gab Titui Cultural Centre, Thursday Island
Ferry times for HI & HMD families: 5:30pm pick up
Return Ferry times for HI & HMD families: 9:00pm
Show 3 (part 1&2)
Date: Monday, 22 June 2026
Time: Doors at 6pm for 6:30pm showtime
Where: Badu Community Hall
Show 4
Date: Tuesday, 7 July 2026
Time: Doors at 6pm for 6:30pm showtime
Where: CIAF; Tank 5, Tanks Arts Centre
The production is proudly supported by TSRA through Gab Titui Cultural Centre, alongside its funding and project partners committed to supporting Torres Strait creative arts and storytelling.