Andrea James Appointed Artistic Director and Co-CEO of ILBIJERRI Theatre Company
Yorta Yorta/Gunaikurnai playwright Andrea James has been named the new Artistic Director and Co-CEO of ILBIJERRI Theatre Company, succeeding Rachael Maza after nearly two decades of her leadership. This marks a significant transition for the longest established Indigenous theatre company in Australia.
Honoring the Legacy and Embracing the Future
Ms. James expressed her honor in taking on the role, acknowledging the company's growth and its deep connection to the community. She remembers ILBIJERRI from its early days and emphasizes the enduring spirit that defines the company.
"I remember ILBIJERRI when it used to be a little room in the Aboriginal Housing Board. This is a company that is testament to the power of community and its that spirit and community that speaks to this company to this very day."
Founded in Naarm Melbourne in 1991, ILBIJERRI holds a vital place in Australian theatre. Ilbijerri is a Woiwurrung word that means "Coming together for Ceremony".
The Importance of Aboriginal Storytelling
Ms. James is thrilled to lead such a respected theatre company. She underscores the importance of Aboriginal storytelling and theatre as a means of uniting people, especially in challenging times. She emphasizes the need for platforms that celebrate "boldness, Blackness and brilliance."
"In these very troubling times if we've ever needed a company that celebrates boldness, Blackness and brilliance in all its full power it is now... There's some people in our society that don't want Welcomes to Country, that don't want us to celebrate who we are, and that's why its really important for companies like us to be in existence... Our stories are actually the life blood of this country, that cannot be denied and should never be disrespected."
Ms. James is a renowned director, producer, and playwright, with experience at major theatre companies, including the Melbourne Theatre Company. Her notable works include Sunshine Super Girl, about Wiradjuri tennis legend Evonne Goolagong Cawley, and Big Name, No Blankets, about the NT rock group Warumpi Band.
Tribute to Outgoing Artistic Director Rachael Maza
Ms. James acknowledged the significant contribution of Rachael Maza, who served as Artistic Director and Co-CEO for 18 years. A Yidinji, Meriam and Dutch woman, Ms. Maza felt it was the right time to step down.
"I'm just so humbled and so deeply excited for the future of this company, and more importantly for the stories that get told about this country under the new leadership of Andrea James."
Ms. Maza also reflected on the legacy of Black theatre makers, including her father, Bob Maza, who, along with Uncle Jack Charles, started the first Black theatre companies. She emphasized the continuing role of storytellers, particularly after the failed Voice to Parliament referendum in 2023, in driving important conversations.
"The referendum was such a disaster, and speaks so loudly to the work that's still to be done... So I just want to shout out and acknowledge the role that storytellers and artists play in continuing to drive those conversations that still need to be had."
Rachael Maza is also a renowned actor and director, known for starring in the 1998 film Radiance. Andrea James has directed and written plays for the Melbourne Theatre Company, Griffin Theatre Company, and Urban Theatre Projects.