Cairns Indigenous Art Fair is set to present The Boy Who Found His Way Home, a heartwarming and humorous Zenadth Kes/Torres Strait Islander coming-of-age theatre work by author, poet and songwriter Jillian Boyd-Bowie, as part of its 2026 program.

Delivered in partnership between Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) and Grin and Tonic Theatre, presented by Jillian Boyd-Bowie, and supported by the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) and the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, the production brings a powerful story of identity, culture and belonging to Gimuy/Cairns audiences.

Following a highly successful premiere season in May 2025 at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre amphitheatre where more than 500 people attended across two nights, the production will be presented for a special one-off performance at CIAF 2026.

Making her playwriting debut, Jillian Boyd-Bowie (Bid Buai - Dolphin People and Bakir Bi) tells the story of Iothamo, a young city boy who returns to Zenadth Kes/Torres Strait and reconnects with culture, family and Country.

Through mango chores, no-filter aunties and a local fishing competition, Iothamo's journey unfolds with humour, warmth and cultural insight.

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"Sitting in the audience, watching and observing my story from page to stage was a surreal moment for me, especially seeing families and friends enjoying the show from start to finish, it warms my heart," Boyd-Bowie said.

"To experience storytelling and the passing on of knowledge in a fun and engaging way through theatre is powerful.

"It pays to have such a great team of actors, directors and designers behind it all.

"The post-show impact in community was overwhelming. I have been humbled by the buzz and positive feedback.

"Within one hour, I did my best to capture and celebrate who we are as Torres Strait Islanders in the hope of inspiring our young people to be proud of their identity and cultural heritage... because the future of our cultural sustenance, including our language, lies in their hands."

Grounded in culture, the production delivers powerful messages wrapped in laughter, celebrating Zenadth Kes identity through familiar, lived experiences of home and community.

Renowned Zenadth Kes actor Jimi Bani (Mabo, The Straits) brings multiple characters to life, performing alongside emerging talent Vaughan Wapau, whose portrayal of Iothamo received standing ovations during the premiere season.

"To be able to deliver Aunty Jill's words and share the stage with Vaughan is magical," Bani said.

"The opportunity to act alongside Vaughan is one of my biggest career highlights; he is an amazing storyteller, and I am honoured to ride this wave with him.

Wapau said the story resonates strongly with audiences.

"I just love that familiar story portrayed by Iothamo trying to fit in and then finding accomplishment and pride in learning his culture from his Ata and discovering his identity," he said.

Minister for the Arts, John-Paul Langbroek, said the production shared uniquely Queensland stories, exploring Torres Strait Islander heritage and themes of belonging, identity and culture.

"The Crisafulli Government proudly supports CIAF, and its presentation of the theatre work The Boy Who Found His Way Home, which celebrates Queensland's diverse voices and reinforces the state's global reputation for celebrated arts experiences," he said.

"CIAF helps deliver on the priorities of Queensland's Time to Shine, our 10-year strategy for arts and culture, which includes maximising opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists' and creatives' access to commercial opportunities, business growth, new markets and audiences."

The Boy Who Found His Way Home stands as a vibrant celebration of Zenadth Kes storytelling, showcasing the strength of community, the importance of cultural knowledge, and the enduring connection to home, as it reaches new audiences through CIAF 2026.

Tickets for the one-night-only show on Tuesday 7 July at Tank 5, Tanks Arts Centre, go on sale on Tuesday 26 May.

The Boy Who Found His Way Home is delivered in partnership between Cairns Indigenous Art Fair and Grin and Tonic Theatre, presented by Jillian Boyd-Bowie, and supported by the Torres Strait Regional Authority and the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.

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