The Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) has appointed two new directors.
ArtsHub is reporting two senior arts leaders have been named as the centre’s new directors of engagement and programming.
QPAC Head of Engagement Katrina Torenbeek is stepping into the role of Director – Engagement, while Sydney arts leader Ellen Kavanagh will take up the programming position, according to the arts industry website.
Outgoing QPAC Chief Executive John Kotzas, who will be replaced by experienced arts identity Rachel Healy in December, said both roles were key to the curation and delivery of QPAC’s annual program with a focus on inclusivity, community, connection and delivering the very best in live performance.
“Katrina and Ellen are both seasoned arts professionals with outstanding networks and experience stepping into these critical roles at QPAC at an exciting time for our organisation,” Mr Kotzas said.
ArtsHub said with a long history of executive producing across Queensland, Ms Torenbeek had managed many signature programs, festivals and events, with a dedication to delivering engagement and learning activities in urban, regional and remote communities.
“Ms Torenbeek has broad executive management and programming experience across festivals, venues and arts organisations including Queensland Music Trails, Queensland Music Festival, QPAC, Brisbane Festival and Metro Arts, co-managing the Australia Council MAPS for Artists Initiative.”
It said Ms Kavanagh’s career spans festivals, major performing arts centres, commercial theatre and musicals across Australia and internationally.
“Ms Kavanagh comes to QPAC from Sydney Festival, where she has worked in the role of Head of Programming Operations since 2021, following four years at Sydney Opera House. Prior to this, she worked internationally in commercial theatre, musicals and events with Broadway Entertainment Group, and with touring productions spanning the UK, Europe and Asia.”
