Mark Thomas, Chair Critical Stages Touring (CST), announced today that CEO and Director Chris Bendall will be stepping down after nine years in the role. Chris moves on to take up an exciting new opportunity.
Mark acknowledged the considerable contribution Chris has made to Critical Stages Touring, building significantly on its original brief of touring independent theatre throughout NSW and Australia.
“Chris has extended our reach nationally and internationally, initiated vital conversations and programs within the sector, and generated employment for countless performers, creative artists, and support workers while reaching new and far-flung audiences,” Mark Thomas said.
“Chris’ intelligence, enthusiasm, and passion has ensured that Critical Stages Touring has grown substantially to become an essential part of Australia’s theatrical touring network. Chris has breathed new life into the organisation while more recently producing new original work, digital programming, and steering the company and its artists through the challenges of Covid. We thank Chris and wish him a successful and fulfilling future,” Mark Thomas added.
Chris Bendall said he had enjoyed every moment of his time at Critical Stages Touring and looked forward to seeing the evolution of the next chapter in the CST story.
“I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to lead Critical Stages Touring over the past nine years during a period of significant change in the performing arts. I acknowledge the support of the CST Board and thank the committed staff who, over the years, have all helped to make the seemingly impossible achievable. It has truly been a pleasure,” Chris said.
“I am very proud of what the company has achieved over this time, the countless productions we have toured, the artists we have supported, and the audiences we have reached. I am confident our terrific team will steer the company and our artists to even greater heights over the coming years”, added Chris.
With the 2023 program having already commenced, Critical Stages Touring will shortly commence the recruitment of a new Director & CEO.
For more information about the role please contact Mark Thomas via markathomas720 [@] gmail.com.