Adelaide Fringe Foundation appoints Matt Tarrant as new Chair
Matt Tarrant, a celebrity magician and producer known for his contributions to the Adelaide Fringe, has been appointed the new Chair of the Adelaide Fringe Foundation, taking over from David Pearson, who has resigned after a five-year tenure. This leadership change coincides with significant shifts in Australia’s cultural sector, affecting various organizations such as Circa and the Sydney Writers Festival. The announcement was covered by ArtsHub, with Richard Watts OAM, recognized for his extensive work in performing arts, serving as the National Performing Arts Editor. Watts has earned several prestigious awards, including the 2019 Sidney Myer Facilitator's Prize.
Key facts
- Matt Tarrant appointed Chair of Adelaide Fringe Foundation
- Tarrant is an internationally recognized magician, producer, and long-time Fringe artist
- David Pearson stepped down after five years as Chair
- Other appointments and departures include Circa, Sydney Writers Festival, Victorian Association of Performing Arts Centres, Theatre Works, and Arts and Culture Trust
- Richard Watts OAM is ArtsHub's National Performing Arts Editor
- Watts is a life member of Melbourne Queer Film Festival and Melbourne Fringe Festival Living Legend
- Watts received 2019 Sidney Myer Performing Arts Awards' Facilitator's Prize
- Watts awarded Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in June 2024
Entities
Artists
- Matt Tarrant
- David Pearson
- Richard Watts OAM
Institutions
- Adelaide Fringe Foundation
- Adelaide Fringe
- Circa
- Sydney Writers Festival
- Victorian Association of Performing Arts Centres
- Theatre Works
- Arts and Culture Trust
- ArtsHub
- Melbourne Queer Film Festival
- Melbourne Fringe Festival
- Green Room Awards Association
- Sidney Myer Performing Arts Awards
- MindBlown Productions
Locations
- Adelaide
- Australia
- Victoria
- Western Australia