La Boite Theatre and Playlab Theatre are set to take audiences on an extraordinary journey through space, survival and humanity with the world premiere of Second Coming, a bold new tragicomedy by acclaimed playwright Kathryn Marquet.
Playing at the Roundhouse Theatre from 6 to 22 August 2026, Second Coming explores one of the biggest questions facing our world today: what does the future look like when Earth can no longer sustain us?
Set in the year 2065, the story follows geneticist Evie and the crew of the ARK MARK II as they embark on an ambitious mission to save Earth’s species by transporting them, two by two, to a new home on Mars. Backed by GENESIS, a powerful corporation promising a fresh start through its vision of a “Second Eden,” the mission appears to offer hope for humanity’s future.
However, as the journey unfolds, everything begins to unravel. Evie’s unexpected pregnancy and a startling revelation force the crew to confront uncomfortable truths about their mission, their future and the planet they are leaving behind.
Known for creating thought-provoking theatre, award-winning playwright Kathryn Marquet returns to La Boite for her third production. While Second Coming delivers plenty of laughs and larger-than-life moments, its heart lies in a timely message about environmental responsibility.
“Second Coming is big, funny and a little bit ridiculous, but underneath it is a serious question about how we treat the only home we have,” Marquet said.
“I want people to laugh, then catch themselves thinking about Earth, about responsibility, about the kind of future we are actually building. After all, if we cannot get it right here, Mars will not save us.”
Leading the stellar Queensland cast is Ashlee Lollback as Evie, alongside Gideon Mzembe, Anthony Standish and Merlynn Tong. Lollback reunites with Marquet’s writing after appearing in Pale Blue Dot, taking on the central role of a woman carrying both the future of humanity and her own personal challenges.
“Evie is fierce, funny and completely out of her depth, which is exactly what makes her so easy to love,” Lollback said.
True to La Boite’s reputation for presenting innovative and contemporary Australian stories, Second Coming combines humour, heart and imagination to deliver a powerful reflection on climate change, corporate influence and humanity’s relationship with the natural world.
Audiences can expect a production that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering a timely reminder that the future of Earth remains in our hands.
Performance Details
Second Coming
Venue: La Boite Theatre, Roundhouse Theatre, Kelvin Grove
Season: 6 – 22 August 2026
Opening Night: 8 August 2026
Tickets: $35 – $65
Recommended for audiences aged 15 years and over. Contains adult themes and coarse language. Some themes may be sensitive to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander audiences.
For bookings and information visit La Boite Theatre.
