Cooktown’s history came alive after dark once again, as The Spirits of Cooktown returned to the Pioneer Cemetery for its third year, bringing local stories, characters and community voices together for two memorable nights.
Presented by Box Jelly Theatre Company, the 2026 performance welcomed 153 people over the two nights.
Set among the historic headstones of Cooktown Pioneer Cemetery, the performance transported audiences back in time, illuminating the lives and stories of Cooktown’s pioneers. Through theatre, music and storytelling, familiar community faces stepped into the roles of people from Cooktown’s past.
The atmospheric setting, combined with heartfelt performances, subtle humour and powerful stories, created an experience that was both entertaining and deeply moving.
Audience members provided lots of positive comments, with many staying behind after the performances to share their feedback and speak with the cast.
One audience member said they “loved it”, adding that they even shed “a few tears” while listening to the stories.
A story shaped by community
At the heart of The Spirits of Cooktown is community.
The production is made possible through the involvement of local performers, volunteers, researchers and supporters, with each person contributing to the telling of Cooktown’s history.
Historical research provided by the Cooktown History Centre helped shape the stories brought to the stage, while the cast and crew gave their time, energy and talent to help bring those stories to life.
Many thanks goes to Box Jelly Theatre Company for their creative leadership, the Cooktown History Centre for its invaluable research and support, the cast, and volunteers for their commitment, and everyone who came along to support the production.
Bringing Cooktown’s history to life
The Spirits of Cooktown is more than a theatre performance. It is an opportunity for the community to come together, remember the people who came before us and see familiar places through a different lens.
Now in its third year, the event continues to grow as a unique celebration of Cooktown’s history, storytelling and community spirit.
With local stories at its heart and the community helping to bring them to life, The Spirits of Cooktown has become a special part of Cooktown’s calendar.
