In her role at Canberra Theatre Centre (CTC), Gillian Schwab is dedicated to enriching Canberra’s cultural life by bringing works that reflect a diverse range of communities and life experiences to the stage. Having fallen in love with the collaborative nature of theatre during her time as a lighting and stage designer before moving into an admin role, Gillian now aims to bring works created by women, nonbinary, First Nations people, and those who are neuro-diverse front and centre. 

What inspired you to join this organisation?

“I knew that I wanted more commercial experience, and I was interested in working for an organisation that had momentum and capacity for growth. CTC has grown enormously in the time that I have worked here in both the number of shows we present and in the diversity and strength of the program.”

What do you consider to be your organisation’s key strengths?

“We have big aspirations and we make a lot happen with a very small team. I feel very lucky to work in an organisation with so many amazing women and non-binary people.”

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

“Every day I work on bringing the freshest and most exciting mix of works to our stages. I love the challenge of a difficult budget or even a drawn-out contract negotiation because the end result is performances that fascinate, challenge, and entertain our city. Does a cooler job than that exist? The biggest challenge is to stay resilient and positive while our arts industry is facing such uncertainty. Skills shortages, rising touring costs, and the pandemic have had a devastating effect on artists, crew, and venues. If you have the resources, please consider supporting the arts through donation or by taking a chance on a ticket to a more adventurous work – it might change the way you see the world!”

Where to from here?

“With plans for a redevelopment of CTC that includes a new larger theatre in the design phase, it’s a really exciting time to be on board. I look forward to pivoting around the construction phase with potential for satellite and site-specific programming, and preparing the resources needed for the new and re-imagined venues.”

To learn more about the works the Canberra Theatre Centre team brings to the stage, visit canberratheatrecentre.com.au

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