Patch Theatre Welcomes Associate Director Sally Blackwood

Leading South Australian children's theatre company, Patch Theatre, has appointed their second Associate Director for their Artistic Director Residency Program, securing talented arts all-rounder, Sally Blackwood. Sally is the second of three Associate Director appointments who will have the opportunity to work with renowned children's theatre producer and current Artistic Director, Dave Brown.

The position provides Sally with seven weeks exposure to Dave and the detailed workings of Patch. During this time she will impart her knowledge and expertise within the industry while learning first-hand how a successful children's theatre company operates.

Sally has a bold vision and said "I'm excited by the opportunity to work with such a formidable Director as Dave. My life's work in the performing arts is to make a positive contribution to our global community, using art to inspire, provoke and entertain - 'To change people's lives, if only for a moment'. I look forward to working with Dave and seeing what creatively we can achieve together".

Sally was a standout candidate and was selected for her past experience as a director, creator, producer, programmer, writer, event manager, workshop facilitator & French interpreter.

Sally was Co-Artistic Director of Jigsaw Theatre Company in the ACT, 2010-12. As Artistic Director & Creative Producer Sally created & implemented KidsPlay annual family program of events for Glen Street Theatre 2008-10. She was Resident Director and Tour Manager for Helpmann award winning company Circa who have changed the face of circus in Australia and overseas.

She has represented companies, performing arts institutions & festivals at/on: Sydney Opera House; APAM; SAMAG; APACA; ShowRoom; Long Paddock; YPAA; Come Out; Sydney Festival; Melbourne Festival; Festival d'Avignon; Pollyfollia Festival; Festival Pisteurs d'Etoiles; DanceXchange; International Dance Festival Birmingham; University of Melbourne Arts Conference; Theatre Network NSW & ACT (steering committees); Australian Theatre Network etc.

Production credits include: outdoor festival productions; events; community workshops; PD training workshops; children's theatre/musicals; circus; opera; theatre; dance; cabaret; television commercials; series drama; & film.

Sally has 15+ years' experience in the performing arts as a director & producer: creating and managing annual programs, festivals and events; directing main-stage productions; and touring nationally & internationally.

Sally is an innovator in every sense of the word and was a natural choice for Patch, who is recognised nationally and internationally as a pioneer in creating outstanding theatre work specifically for children and is considered a leader in this highly specialised field.

Selected from a pool of highly successful and qualified candidates, Sally was chosen for her commitment to directing across multiple arts genres as well as her clear passion for and respect of children's' theatre.

Patch Theatre Artistic Director Dave Brown says, "It is a joy to share the artistic comings and goings of the company's day to day activities with Sally who is astute, passionate and talented. Getting to work alongside a like-minded artist over an 8 week period is stimulating for me and the company and gives rise to new insights and outcomes in all aspects of our work."

For more information on Sally Blackwood including a downloadable headshot head to www.sallyblackwood.com.

There is one remaining Associate Director Residency on offer in 2014. The residency will be offered for seven weeks. Information about Patch's Artistic Director Residency Program can be downloaded from the Patch Theatre Company website at www.patchtheatre.org.au/news.html.

Pictured: Sally Blackwood. Photo by honeydieu photography.

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