NEW LEADER FOR QUEENSLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE

Arts Minister Rod Welford today announced John Kotzas as the new Director of the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC).

Mr Welford said Mr Kotzas was an internationally recognised arts leader who joined QPAC in 1989 and has served as its Artistic Director since 2003.

“Mr Kotzas has already made an enormous contribution to the cultural and artistic life of Queensland and he takes the reins at a vital time in QPAC’s history,” Mr Welford said.

“In March QPAC, which has been entertaining Queenslanders since 1977, will reopen its two main theatres after a $34 million refurbishment.

“I look forward to John’s leadership of this much-loved home for Queensland’s performing arts.”

QPAC Chairman Henry Smerdon confirmed the Queensland Performing Arts Trust board had endorsed the appointment.

“In recent years, the board has refocused the organisation’s priorities with increased emphasis on commercial partnerships, enlivening outdoor spaces and attracting new and diverse audiences,” Mr Smerdon said.

“John has introduced many initiatives that deliver against these priorities and we are thrilled he has accepted this role.”

Mr Kotzas said he was excited about the challenges ahead and looked forward to delivering a new, revitalised QPAC to Queensland audiences.

“I am absolutely delighted to be given the opportunity to make a strong contribution to our audiences, our communities and the performing arts through my role at QPAC,” he said.

Mr Kotzas has been associated with QPAC since the late 1980s. In 1995 he played a key role in the Australia Remembers celebrations and in 1996 he was Managing Director of the inaugural Brisbane Festival. At QPAC he initiated the STAGE X Festival and led the team that developed the Out of the Box Festival for 3 to 8 year olds.

Media contact: Emma Clarey or Jo Crompton on 3237 1000

12 December 2008