The Board of Arena Theatre Company has announced the appointment of Sharon Custers as the company’s new Executive Director.
Sharon has over 20 years’ experience in the performing arts industry, including roles with Sydney Theatre Company, Griffin Theatre Company, Spare Parts Puppet Theatre and Cirque du Soleil. Sharon is currently the Executive Director of Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre and will take up her role with Arena in March, sharing the leadership of the company with its Artistic Director, Christian Leavesley.
“I am so excited to have Sharon joining the Arena team as we begin our new life as a Bendigo based theatre company,” said Leavesley. “Sharon’s breadth of experience is overwhelming. Her drive and energy are a perfect fit for the brilliant opportunities we have in front of us.”
One of Australia’s most significant theatre makers for young audiences, Arena relocated from Melbourne earlier this year, to establish itself as a regionally-based theatre company in Bendigo and the first resident company at the Capital Theatre complex.
Set to emerge from the Company’s new home within the complex, The Engine Room, are two exciting productions – the remounting of Trapper – which will play at the Sydney Opera House (11 – 15 April), and its first Bendigo presentation – the world premiere of Robot Song (11 – 19 July).
“We are going to work really hard to embed the company in Bendigo, whilst fostering innovative partnerships with major arts organisations throughout Australia and overseas,” said Sharon. “I am thrilled to be joining the company at this exciting time and, for me personally, I am really looking forward to coming home to Victoria.”
For more information about Arena Theatre Company, visit: www.arenatheatre.com.au for details.
Image: Sharon Custers – photo by Jo Semmens