Australian Voices and Stories in Theatre
Offshore Theatre presents Andrew Bovells’ piercing drama Speaking in Tongues. Directed by Melissa McMillan
14-17 May 2026 @ Berninneit
Offshore Theatre Company is a vibrant community-based theatre company proudly serving Phillip Island and the Bass Coast since 1995. Founded by a group of enthusiastic local theatre makers, the company has grown from humble beginnings into a respected producer of live performance that reflects the diversity, humour and heart of our community. Our work is driven by a commitment to creative excellence, inclusivity, and participation. We welcome performers and creatives of all ages and experience levels — from seasoned actors to newcomers taking their first steps into theatre. Together, we make work that inspires, entertains and connects people.
Community at Our Core
What makes Offshore Theatre special isn’t just the shows—it’s the people. Every production brings together a mix of seasoned actors and first-timers, students and retirees, artists and organisers. Whether you’re backstage, in the spotlight, or clapping from the audience, you’re part of something bigger.
We also love holding play readings and workshops, giving locals a chance to dip their toes into theatre without the pressure of a full performance. It’s all about growing together and celebrating the talent in our own backyard.
From Pantomime to Powerful Drama
Offshore Theatre was established in 1995 by Amanda Price, Anne Davie, Michael Cleeland, Sue Pearce and Sharon Davie who staged Cinderella as the company’s first production. That inaugural show laid the foundation for a thriving community theatre tradition on Phillip Island, rooted in collaboration and passion for performance.
Over nearly three decades, Offshore Theatre has expanded its artistic scope — from beloved pantomimes and melodramas to ambitious contemporary plays and challenging dramas. Throughout this evolution, we have remained true to our community theatre ethos: to create quality live performance with heart, humour and honesty.
“Loved the show. Offshore Theatre do a great job. What a fabulous theatre company! Beautiful new venue.”
“Great night and a wonderful performance, loved the venue as well.”
“We enjoyed the show very much. Wonderful acting and script. It was well worth seeing and very relevant with Remembrance Day on 11th Nov.”
“I loved My Sister Jill. The story and the acting was superb. And of course the venue is always a bonus.”
“An excellent piece of work and very good performance by all actors.”
“Well done to the cast and crew. the cast did a wonderful job reliving the conditions for everyone… The venue, amazing.”
Some Highlights from Our Stage
Each year, Offshore Theatre presents a curated program that blends entertainment with thought-provoking themes.
Recent seasons have included:
Emerald City (2025)
Most recently, we dived into David Williamson’s Emerald City, set in the fast-talking world of 1980s Sydney. Full of wit and cynicism (and dialogue for days!), it was the perfect satire to kick off our 2025 season, and we had a blast bringing it to life.
My Sister Jill (2024)
We performed this incredible Patricia Cornelius play as part of Berninneit’s first birthday celebrations. Melissa McMillan directed again, and the performances were unforgettable. It was one of those shows that gets people talking long after the curtain falls.
Sunset Strip (2024)
In 2024, we took on Suzie Miller’s Sunset Strip—a tender, funny, and emotional play about two sisters navigating cancer, divorce, and life in general. It was raw, honest, and surprisingly uplifting. We staged it at Newhaven College’s Black Box Theatre, and it was an audience favourite.
Australians All (2023)
This one was written by Jonathan Biggins and directed by Amanda Price. It’s a clever satire about what it means to be Australian. It was meant to debut in 2020, but COVID had other plans. When we finally put it on in 2023, it struck a chord with audiences—funny, timely, and thought-provoking.
2:20AM (2023)
Probably one of our most powerful pieces. Written by Rebecca Lister and directed beautifully by Melissa McMillan, it dealt with the raw topic of suicide and grief. It wasn’t an easy story to tell, but it resonated deeply—and we were proud (and a little teary) when it won Best Production, Best Director, and more at the Gippsland Associated Theatre Awards.
Accolades & Recognition
Offshore Theatre Company has been honoured with multiple nominations and awards at the Gippsland Associated Theatre Awards, including Most Outstanding Production and recognitions for acting, directing, design and ensemble work. These accolades reflect the dedication and talent of our cast, creative teams and volunteers.
Most Outstanding Director – Drama/Comedy – Melissa McMillan (for 2:20AM)
Most Outstanding Lead Actor – Drama/Comedy – Chris White (for 2:20AM)
Most Outstanding Sound Design – Drama/Comedy – Chris White (for 2:20AM)
Most Outstanding Lighting Design – Drama/Comedy – Remi D’Agostin (for 2:20AM)
Most Outstanding Small Ensemble – 2:20AM
Most Outstanding Properties – (Gippsland Theatre) – Gerry & Harley Petersen (for Australians All)
Most Outstanding Program Design – Drama/Comedy – Amanda Price (for Australians All)
Judges’ Award / Certificate – Australians All
Most Outstanding Lead Actress – Drama/Comedy – Marni Johnston (for My Sister Jill)
Get Involved
Performers & Creatives:
Whether you’re an experienced artist or trying theatre for the first time, there are opportunities to contribute on stage, backstage and behind the scenes.
Workshops & Readings:
We offer play readings and workshops designed to welcome new participants without committing to a full production — a perfect way to explore your creative interests.
Volunteering & Support:
From production crew to front-of-house, your skills and enthusiasm help bring our performances to life.
Connect with us through our social channels or join our mailing list for updates on auditions, rehearsals and community events.
Some of our incredible sponsors and suppliers
