An alumni curtain call: Centre stage with theatre powerhouse Nelle Lee

When Nelle Lee steps back onto the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) campus, there’s an undeniable sense that the stage is set for magic to unfold.

Returning to Toowoomba in 2025 to work alongside UniSQ’s next generation of theatre-makers, she says it’s been both a full-circle moment and a creative encore she’ll never tire of.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Theatre (Acting) in 2004 – the accomplished actor, producer, writer, and Artistic Director of the renowned theatre company Shake & Stir – has carved out an inspiring legacy that continues to shape the creative landscape of Australian theatre.

From touring regional Queensland to performing at the Sydney Opera House, Nelle has built a career full of creativity, courage, and collaboration – the kind of narrative that leaves future theatre students waiting in the wings for their own big break.

We were lucky enough to catch up with Nelle in between rehearsals for a reflection on where it all began, where she’s been, and where she wants to go.

We’ve been thrilled to welcome you back to your alma mater to work on some student productions in 2025! What does it mean to you to come back to where it all began?

I absolutely love returning to Toowoomba to work with the UniSQ Theatre students. That campus holds such a special place in my creative heart – those hallways played a huge role in shaping who I am today as an artist. The work itself is always fulfilling. I find the students to be incredibly hardworking, brave, and endlessly talented.

What do you remember of your time studying at UniSQ, and how did it set you up for your career?

I remember my uni days as equal parts joyful and challenging – in the best way! It was a time of discovery, constant creation, and huge personal growth. You’re finding your voice, learning what drives you, and realising just how many different paths there are in this wild and rewarding industry.

You’ve achieved so much since graduating. What’s been the most rewarding achievement or experience of your career so far?

I’m a passionate advocate for bridging the gap for young artists, making sure there are viable and accessible opportunities for them to explore the performing arts as a profession. I’m so proud of the work we do at Shake & Stir, and I find it hugely rewarding to move between performing at the Sydney Opera House, touring to schools across regional and remote Queensland, and developing work with the next generation of artists. Variety really is the spice of life and I feel so lucky that my spice rack is always in rotation.

You founded Shake & Stir in 2006, just two years after graduating. Its shows have since been nominated for several Helpmann Awards, a Matilda Award, and APACA’s Drover Award for Tour of the Year. What can you tell us about why you decided to form this theatre company, and the lessons you’ve learned along the way?

It was almost a given that a lot of us entering the industry would end up creating our own work in some capacity. It was something our lecturers at UniSQ championed from day one. So, we were ready to make our own opportunities. The biggest lesson I’ve learned since is that longevity in this industry comes from collaboration, adaptability, and a genuine love of the work.

What are some of your other career highlights or achievements that make you proud?

I feel most proud when I hear from people who’ve pursued a career in the performing arts because of an experience they had with Shake & Stir – whether that was seeing a performance, participating in a workshop, or taking part in Shake Fest at their school. Knowing that we’ve inspired someone to follow their own artistic path is such a good feeling. Keeping the arts alive, that’s what it’s all about!

What advice would you give today’s theatre students, or high school students thinking about a career in the creative arts?

You must be your own measure of success. Don’t hand your sense of worth to anyone else. It’s a fruitless mission to rely on foyer comments, social media posts, reviews, or awards for validation. You need to have enough self-awareness to know when you’re doing good work and when you’re not. Stay curious, collaborate generously, and keep learning.

Are you coming back to UniSQ in 2026? And if so, in what capacity? What are your thoughts about the new degree?

Yes! I’m so excited to return in 2026 to work with the second-year students on a new adaptation of a famous classic, a story of passion and consequence, where truth battles duty, and one woman risks everything for a chance at happiness in a world that refuses to allow it. Can you guess what it is?

Sounds intense. Titanic?

Not quite… no boats sink in this story! Just reputations. Still just as chilly – just a little further east and a touch more… imperial.

Stay tuned for more!

Nelle Lee’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose, and a reminder that for UniSQ Theatre students, the stage is not just a destination but a lifelong journey.

And as Nelle proves, the show truly does go on (especially when you write, produce, and star in it yourself!)

Encore, Nelle. Encore.

Learn more about our Bachelor of Acting (Theatre).