Episode 16. Richard Evans: One of Australia's foremost cultural leaders on career, current issues and leading change and innovation

This week’s guest is Richard Evans AMA highly respected arts leader, Richard has had an extensive career in arts management, leading some of Australia's most prominent cultural institutions. He is currently the Managing Director of the Australian Chamber Orchestra (ACO) and President of Live Performance Australia (LPA).In this wide-ranging conversation, Richard discusses his diverse career, which includes roles as CEO of the Sydney Opera House, Executive Director of The Australian Ballet, and General Manager of Bell Shakespeare. He shares insights into his management style, the challenges of stakeholder management, and the importance of enabling creative people to do great work.Richard also delves into his time at the ACO, working alongside its visionary Artistic Director, Richard Tognetti. He discusses the unique position of the ACO within the Australian orchestral ecosystem and the balance between artistic vision and broader organizational objectives. Richard emphasizes the importance of the ACO's learning and engagement programs, as well as the development of their new home at Pier 2/3 in Walsh Bay.The interview explores Richard's thoughts on Australia's relationship with culture, the perception of arts organisations, and the industry's response to challenging issues such as the current Israel/Palestine situation. Richard offers a thoughtful perspective on the role of arts organisations in addressing social issues and the need for caution when engaging in activism outside of an organisation's core mission.Throughout the conversation, Richard shares valuable insights on navigating leadership transitions, preparing for the future, and the challenges and opportunities facing the arts sector in Australia. He also reflects on his role as President of Live Performance Australia and his efforts to advocate for greater investment and support for the industry.Richard offers valuable advice for navigating difficult conversations as a leader and dealing with setbacks in the performing arts industry. He also shares his insights on the demands of a career in arts management and the importance of making time for deeper reflection.Richard has been a supportive mentor for many aspiring arts leaders in the industry, myself included. I hope you enjoy this conversation with Richard Evans.Links:The Australian Chamber OrchestraLive Performance AustraliaThe Cafe CarlyleThe Topp TwinsConnect with Decoding Cultural Leadership on social mediaInstagram, Threads, X/Twitter:@[email protected]@samuelcairnduffRead Sam's Substack here.Presenter and research: Sam CairnduffCreative Director: Niloofar PashmforooshPresented in association with LimelightDecoding Cultural Leadership | Culture. Society. Conversations