Having first taken up the mantle as Queensland Theatre’s Artistic Director in 2019, after an almost half-decade tenure, it has been confirmed that Lee Lewis will be leaving the arts company at the end of the month. Change is not uncommon in the performing arts industry, and this comes off the back of many successful seasons (including during the year of COVID-19). This is also not a full farewell just yet, with Lewis set to return later this year for POTUS, which she serves as director.
Commenting on this announcement, Lee Lewis shared the following on her decision to leave the role of Artistic Director:
I’ve made this decision to step down as Artistic Director of Queensland Theatre with a certain sadness, but with the best interests of the company in mind. After carrying the weight of leadership for this extraordinary company for four years, through the hardest time in history, I feel it is best for new energy to inspire artists and audiences alike.
I feel great pride that I leave at the beginning of a season that promises a diversity of experience that is thrilling, ambitious and inviting. This year, Queensland Theatre works are touring the country, partnering with organisations large and small to expand capacity, and will reach more young people than ever before, so I know it has the people and purpose it needs to continue to reach great heights in the years to come.
This news comes shortly after Queensland Theatre unveiled an Associate Artistic Director team, which includes Daniel Evans (Programming), Isaac Drandic (First Nations) and Fiona MacDonald (Education and Youth). Despite introducing these new roles, recruitment will soon be underway for a new Artistic Director.
Further commenting on this announcement, Elizabeth Jameson AM, Chair of the Queensland Theatre Board added:
On behalf of the Board, I want to sincerely thank Lee for her leadership, vision and deep commitment to artistic excellence over the past four years. This has been an extraordinary time for the company as we navigated the disruption of COVID, floods and a changing world. Throughout it all, Lee has been steadfast in her belief in the power of theatre to make a difference to the world.
Lee is an exceptional director and storyteller. We are grateful for her stewardship of Queensland Theatre. I know the company will join me in thanking Lee for her great contribution these past four years. Thanks to the talent, hard work and resilience of our team, Queensland Theatre also looks forward to the next exciting chapter in its 50+ year history
