HotHouse Theatre has announced that after nearly six years of dedicated leadership, Artistic Director Karla Conway will not continue with the company in 2025.
During her tenure, Karla has made a significant impact, championing local artists and stories while commissioning and producing ground-breaking new Australian works.
Since assuming the role in 2021, Karla has overseen a remarkable creative period for HotHouse Theatre. Under her guidance, the company commissioned and produced a series of acclaimed works, including Unprecedented (NSW Premier’s Literary Award finalist), All the Shining Lights (winner of the AWG Award for Best Theatre for Young Audiences), and HER.
These productions received critical praise and also set new box office records, underscoring the company’s artistic vitality and community connection.
Karla fostered strategic collaborations with leading organisations such as Malthouse Theatre, BRINK Productions, and Griffin Theatre. These partnerships strengthened artistic bonds between regional and metropolitan Australia, enhancing HotHouse Theatre’s profile as a dynamic force in the national arts landscape.
A passionate advocate for artist development, Karla spearheaded innovative initiatives such as CELSIUS: Independent Theatre Professional Development and LaunchPad: Emerging Ensemble, creating meaningful opportunities for both emerging and established creatives.
Programs like PlayBox, an interschool theatre initiative for Year 9-10 students, and HSC/VCE Drama Presentations also reflect her commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering a love of theatre in future generations.
The Board of HotHouse Theatre extends its gratitude to Karla for her dedication and leadership. Her contributions have laid a strong foundation for the company’s ambitious 2030 vision: to become Australia’s most community-connected theatre company, a place where creativity, inclusivity, and connection inspire transformative theatre experiences that resonate both locally and nationally.
Karla’s legacy will continue to shape HotHouse Theatre as it builds on this vision for the future. Plans for the artistic leadership of HotHouse will be announced shortly
For more information about HotHouse Theatre, visit: www.hothousetheatre.com.au for details.
Image: Karla Conway (supplied)