Our Vision: Be a world-class originator of popular and culturally impactful new original Australian theatre.
Our Purpose:
To redefine the Australian cultural conversation by harnessing regional Victorian talent to tell new Australian stories that challenge, inspire, and delight.
Dr. Robert Holian
Founder, Mitochondria Productions | Composer, Writer & Theatre Producer
Dr. Robert Holian is a passionate regional theatre creator and community-based general practitioner living in Bendigo. Deeply embedded in his local community, Rob founded Mitochondria Productions to create pathways for Northern Victorian talent to produce original, ambitious new work.
His creative journey began early, teaching himself MIDI sequencing in primary school and later studying music theory and orchestration at the University of Melbourne Conservatorium of Music. While maintaining a medical career, Rob returned to theatre during the COVID-19 pandemic as a vital outlet for mental health and creativity. He is an accomplished performer, writer, and composer, with lead roles in several regional productions and experience composing for short films and advertising campaigns.
Beyond his creative output, Rob is an active leader in the arts sector. He serves on the Bendigo Theatre Company's Committee of Management and was selected for the 2025 Emporium Creative Hub Incubator program to develop creative entrepreneurship.
Jade Cuskelly
Actor, Vocalist & Writer | Producer, Mitochondria Productions
Jade Cuskelly is a performer and producer based in Bendigo with extensive experience across musical theatre, stage, film, and concerts. Recognised for her emotional depth and commanding stage presence, she has performed in numerous regional productions, including lead and featured roles. Her screen credits include the lead role in the award-winning silent film Pail, for which she received a Best Actor nomination.
An award-winning vocalist, Jade has studied singing since 2011 and recently won all five 18+ singing categories at the 2023 Bendigo Annual Eisteddfod. She has also performed at major regional events such as the Australian Musical Theatre Festival and Bendigo Pride Festival, working alongside esteemed industry professionals including Todd McKenney, Rachael Beck, David Hobson, Simon Gleeson, Rob Mills, and Queenie van de Zandt.
Beyond the stage, Jade is a passionate creator and advocate for original storytelling, and is dedicated to exploring lived experiences of autism and mental health. As a singing teacher, she also mentors the next generation of performers, empowering them to find their own voices through healthy technique and storytelling.
Our Values:
Artistic Excellence
While our focus is local, our standards are global. We strive for professional-grade production values that celebrate our community’s stories with the prestige they deserve.
One of a Kind
We don’t replicate existing work, we innovate. No one tells stories quite like we do, and our unique quirks are some of our greatest assets.
Regional Empowerment
We are fiercely committed to regional Victoria. We champion the idea that regional artists should be able to live, work, and thrive where they are, without always having to migrate to the city to find professional success.
Say Something Worthwhile
We choose stories that spark dialogue, foster empathy, and address real issues facing society. We create art that doesn’t just fill a seat, but fuels a movement toward a more thoughtful and inclusive community.
Ecosystem Thinking
We nurture an encouraging environment for existing and emerging local artists, giving them opportunities to learn and grow their own artistic practices.