Damien - Programming Manager, Redland Performig Arts Centre
Love arts and culture? Here’s how Damien has set the stage for a meaningful career at RPAC
Damien is a writer and creative professional who has made an indelible impact on the world of film, theatre and international arts festivals. Today, as Programming Manager at the Redlands Performing Arts Centre, he’s making the most rewarding contribution of his 20-plusyear career.
A powerful performance
There’s something exhilarating about a standing ovation. Damien has witnessed many such outpourings of emotion over the years. Yet, the one that moved him the most happened at Redland Performing Arts Centre (RPAC).
The performance? A bold, brave and boisterous show by Briefs - a Brisbane-based collective blending circus, “boylesque”, comedy and dance.
“We’d never had anything like that at RPAC before,” Damien reflects. “It was a bit cheeky, and we were a little nervous about how it would be received, but we were absolutely thrilled. The Friday night was a complete sell-out and got a standing ovation. It was such an affirming moment and made me realise we are making a real difference in the cultural landscape of Redlands Coast.”
Damien brings years of experience as a writer, director and producer to his role as Redland City Council’s Programming Manager. He has worked in film, theatre and festivals, including the Queensland Theatre and Brisbane Festival. Yet, Damien felt a calling to make an even greater impact.
“I wanted to be part of an organisation that could make a long-term, meaningful difference to the arts and culture infrastructure of a region. When this position at RPAC came up, it was just the right fit. The role is challenging and diverse, and I love it.”
A contribution that counts
Since joining our team in April 2021, Damien has brought arts from around Australia and the world to the Redlands Coast. He deftly juggles countless enquiries and bookings - from tours and concerts to community events and workshops.
Damien also leads Redland City’s artistic development program. He’s passionate about showcasing our own incredible talent - particularly, the arts and stories of the Quandamooka People, the Traditional Owners of Redlands Coast.
Recently, Damien and his team were thrilled to help emerging Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) artist, Sachém Parkin-Owens, secure an arts grant. These funds will enable Sachém, who shares the stories of his ancestors through poetry and song, to create a theatrical production called The Bigger Picture, which will be performed at RPAC in late 2022.
“We’ve got some fantastic programs in the pipeline that I think will really entertain and stimulate the people of Redlands Coast. It’s an exciting time for arts and culture in the region.”
Damien is committed to his own development, too. At Redlands City Council, he’s seized opportunities to learn and grow both personally and professionally, such as our Wellbeing Through Adventure initiative and resilience workshops.
“The learning and development at Council is fantastic. It’s deeply embedded in the culture, which has been really refreshing and great to experience.”
Striking a balance
Damien’s work days are full, yet he still gets time to focus on what matters – spending time with his wife and their cavoodle, Jojo Rabbit, writing and woodworking, and playing with his “dad band”, Crisis.
“The flexibility is great, and Redlands Coast is just such a beautiful place to work. I love the connection we have with the land and country.”
For now, Damien looks forward to continuing to enrich his community and career.
“There’s a lot of opportunity at Council - I highly recommend it. You just need to be flexible, authentic, and have a real passion for what you do.”