Auckland’s new professional performing arts venue, Q Theatre, is pleased to announce the appointment of Carla Theunissen to the role of Director.

“Carla comes to Q Theatre with an exceptional collaborative approach to leadership, a sound programming background and excellent business skills,” says Andrew Caisley, Chairman of Q Theatre.

Carla has extensive experience as a programmer and producer for Sydney Opera House and was Associate Director at Sydney Festival. She has venue management experience from her time with Bangarra Dance Theatre and has undertaken project management work for Performing Lines, the Sydney 2000 Olympic Arts Festival and most recently, Sydney Theatre Company.

She is also a Board Member of Urban Theatre Projects which produces theatre work with disadvantaged and migrant communities. Carla was born in South Africa, but gained her B.Com in Australia where she has lived since her childhood.

Following an induction process Carla will begin working full time for the theatre in April 2011 while General Manager, Susanne Ritzenhoff, will remain at Q Theatre to ensure that the construction of the world-class flexi-form performance venue is successfully delivered for its first show in September 2011.

Q Theatre will also shortly begin the recruitment process for two other roles to work directly under Ms Theunissen. These two roles are the Business Manager who will be responsible for managing Q’s financial and business environment, and the Development Manager who will oversee areas such as marketing, PR, industry and audience development initiatives.

Mr Caisley says, “I am looking forward to welcoming Carla and am confident that she will bring value to the future of Q Theatre as a sustainable organisation with a commitment to excellence and in making Q Theatre the go-to place for Auckland’s most exciting theatre, dance, drama, comedy, music and much more.”