Originally known as Acting Up at Mission Beach, the Mission Arts theatre group began its journey in 2019 with the goal of providing people across the Cassowary Coast region access to theatrical experiences.
In 2021, the group embraced a broader vision, evolving into an ensemble to strengthen its mission and establish a clear direction. This transformation gave birth to the Mission Arts Theatre Ensemble (MATES).
The ensemble style brings a collaborative focus to its operations and productions, with an emphasis on "local." At MATES, we celebrate the Cassowary Coast community by showcasing content created and produced by local people, while ensuring inclusivity and creativity remain at the heart of all we do.
Our acronym, initially an oddly misshapen MATEs, has grown into the beautifully formed MATES — a testament to the evolution and spirit of our group.
Mission Statement
The objectives of MATES are:
- To encourage community interest in the performing arts;
- To provide performance experiences to the Cassowary Coast communities; and,
- To provide a platform to bring the community together, that offer its participants social opportunities, and a wide-range of performance experiences.