We are thrilled to announce to our new Executive Director of VAPAC – Patrick McCarthy.
Tammy Ryan – Executive Committee Chair, said, “VAPAC has performed a key leadership role in supporting and assisting its members and the sector in navigating the new landscape. As we emerge and re-open, we are extremely excited that Patrick is on board to lead VAPAC as it enters its next chapter. I am confident that Patrick will build upon VAPAC’s profile as a key industry stakeholder, passionately advocate for its Members and inject new ideas to strengthen VAPAC’s vision and value as integral to the performing arts ecosystem. We are also very fortuitous to be retaining Jenny Ryssenbeek’s knowledge, expertise and passion within the organisation, so we are in a truly great position.”
Patrick McCarthy joins VAPAC following several years in leadership roles with industry peak bodies across the education, civil construction, and manufacturing sectors. He has worked extensively with members, stakeholders, and government at all levels to navigate industry challenges and deliver positive outcomes. Additionally, Patrick has worked for over a decade in the performing arts as a playwright and director, leading the acclaimed independent companies Mutation Theatre and Fabricated Rooms. He was Writer in Residence at Chamber Made Opera and has created work with leading organisations such as Theatre Works, Darebin Arts, Next Wave, and Playwriting Australia. He has undertaken professional development and research in the US and Europe and holds post-graduate qualifications in theatre and policy development.
McCarthy said, “I am both honoured and incredibly excited to be joining VAPAC in the role of Executive Director. The performing arts play such an important role in the life of our communities, and I look forward to collaborating with our members and stakeholders on building a stronger future for the sector. It has been heartbreaking to see Victoria’s beautiful theatres dark for much of the last two years, and we’ll be doing everything we can to see these vital cultural spaces reawaken and thrive”.
Patrick will commence with VAPAC on Monday 8 November 2021. For more information on our staff, check out the VAPAC Website/People page here.
