Who is Ash Jacks McCready?
I’m a mum of two, aged two and four, a wife, a daughter, a friend and a creative director/producer lucky to have had opportunities to create all around the world including time as assistant creative director at the Cirque Du Soleil entertainment group.
I’m currently Creative Director of Cirque Alice opening in Sydney this December, and Now You See Me Live, based on Lionsgate Blockbuster film franchise Now You See Me, opening at Sydney Opera House this December! I am wildly passionate about creating memorable moments in my shows that inspire and at their core, make people happy.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I can’t imagine doing anything else than in the creative space; I have wanted to be in the entertainment world since I was a very small child putting shows on in my lounge room for my parents!
Who inspires you and why?
My mum – she’s strong, brave, compassionate and is a wonderful mother, I look up to her so much as a parent to guide me through my parenting life. Also my husband. He’s driven, smart, disciplined and incredibly humble.
I’m also inspired by Simon Painter, my mentor in creating and producing shows. He is wildly creative without fear and pioneers brilliant ideas with passion and confidence. All three of these people have helped shape the person I am now.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would pour more resources into the care and education of children in every corner of the world and hope that we can protect and love our youngest, most vulnerable little ones to help shape a better future for them and the world.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Vomo Island Fiji… the dreamiest island with the most beautiful people that respect and care deeply for the environment.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
NOOSA! Noosa is also one of my favourite destinations in the world with so much to offer, secret beaches, point and beach breaks for surfing, great spots for little ones, restaurants for mum and dad or girls nights… it has it all!
What are you currently reading?
Truth be told, the only thing I’m reading are kids books for my children at night for bedtime! I do love a podcast though, mostly I tune into Diary of a CEO.
What are you currently listening to?
Fat Freddy’s drop on repeat, famous Classical music as we blend that into modern tracks for Cirque Alice and The Wiggles with my kids
Happiness is?
Seeing my children happy, healthy and inquisitive, my husband and family happy and healthy, and audiences leaving shows enlightened and happy. Or in its simplest form, a sunny day on the beach with my family.
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully a spot on the creative team for the Opening ceremony of the Olympics in my hometown of Brisbane 😉
Ash is the creative director of Cirque Alice – which plays at the Coliseum Theatre, Western Sydney, from 24 December 2025 – 4 January 2026. For more information, visit: www.coliseumtheatre.com.au for details.
Image: Ash Jacks McCready (supplied)