Red Phoenix Theatre Announces New Artistic Director

Award-winning theatre company, Red Phoenix Theatre is pleased to announce the appointment of Libby Drake as its new Artistic Director. The decision was made by the Red Phoenix Theatre Board Members at the recent Annual General Meeting. Libby Drake, a co-founder of the company, brings excellent experience and artistic vision to her new role.

Libby Drake’s appointment comes as Michael Eustice, the outgoing Artistic Director, steps down from his position after an outstanding tenure. Michael has been at the helm since Red Phoenix Theatre’s inception in 2016, and under his leadership, the company has achieved remarkable success. Throughout his seven-year tenure, the company has received numerous nominations and awards from organisations, including the Theatre Association of South Australia, the Adelaide Theatre Guide, and the Adelaide Critics Circle.

During Michael Eustice’s tenure, Red Phoenix Theatre has produced 18 highly regarded and critically acclaimed productions, leaving an indelible mark on Adelaide’s vibrant theatre scene. Notable productions include William Shakespeare’s “Titus Andronicus,” Albert Camus’ “Caligula,” and Václav Havel’s “The Conspirators.”

Reflecting on his tenure, Michael Eustice expressed immense pride in the company’s achievements during his time as Artistic Director. He said:

I am incredibly proud of the accomplishments we’ve made over the past 7 years, particularly as we navigated the challenges of COVID. We were the first company in Adelaide to stage a show as we emerged from the COVID lockdowns, and we have consistently delivered high quality and innovative experiences for our audiences.

While Michael is stepping down from the role of Artistic Director, he will continue his journey with Red Phoenix Theatre in the capacity of Company Production Manager, bringing his expertise and passion to further support the company’s creative endeavours. Michael will also continue his role as Managing Director of the performing arts schools, Theatre Bugs & Adelaide Theatre Academy.

Libby Drake, who assumes the position of Artistic Director, expressed her excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to lead Red Phoenix Theatre into the future. As a co-founder of the company, she is deeply committed to upholding the company’s vision of presenting premieres to Adelaide’s theatregoers.

Libby :

I am very proud to accept this new role and I look forward to continuing Red Phoenix Theatre’s legacy of delivering exceptional theatrical experiences to our audiences.

Red Phoenix Theatre Board Members are delighted to welcome Libby Drake as Artistic Director and are confident that her artistic skills and dedication will lead the company to even greater heights. Other board members re-elected include Robby Drake, Brant Eustice, Nick Fagan, Ruby Faith, Richard Parkhill, and Steve Rate, who will continue to play an integral role in the company’s future endeavours.

Red Phoenix Theatre’s upcoming productions at Holden Street Theatres include David Ireland’s “Cyprus Avenue,” directed by Nick Fagan, scheduled for October, followed by Libby Drake directing the company’s first production in 2024, Pulitzer Prize winner Horton Foote’s acclaimed play, “The Trip to Bountiful.”

Red Phoenix Theatre expresses deep gratitude to Michael Eustice for his invaluable contributions as Artistic Director and eagerly anticipates a new era under the guidance of Libby Drake.