Each year Circa performs more than 350 shows across 13 countries. In 2019 the company was invited to join the Major Performing Arts Framework (now the National Performing Arts Partnership Framework). During Ben’s tenure the full-time ensemble expanded from 7 to 35 performers, alongside significant growth in annual performances, audiences and organisational turnover.

 

Ben’s role spanned the core functions of the Artistic Director, sharing responsibility for the artistic leadership of the company while also holding line management responsibility for the ensemble and other direct reports.

 

His work encompassed visioning, strategic planning, programming, directing, production delivery, engagement initiatives and stakeholder relations. He also served as Executive Lead of Circa Academy, a key business unit of the company, where he drove a 40% increase in participants and revenue within the first 18 months.

 

On three occasions he served as Acting Artistic Director for extended periods, taking full responsibility for Circa’s artistic program and operational leadership. In partnership with Artistic Director Yaron Lifschitz, he helped lead the 35-member ensemble as well as the company’s tour director and resident director structures.

 

Ben created new works with many of the world’s leading festivals, venues and companies, including the Cultural Olympiad, Norfolk & Norwich Festival, Chamäleon Theatre (Berlin), MA Scène Nationale, Grand Theatre Groningen, Arena Media and most major Australian festivals.

 

He also spearheaded major engagement initiatives with organisations including Cairns International Art Festival, International Dance Festival Birmingham and UC Davis, while contributing to touring programs and strategic initiatives across 31 countries.

 

Works that Ben directed, co-directed or associate directed have been presented in more than 560 performances to over 186,000 audience members worldwide, including 137 performances in Queensland.