Louise Bezzina’s 2025 Brisbane Festival will be her last as Artistic Director. She won’t be moving far, however. In a simultaneous announcement, Brisbane’s Powerhouse confirmed Bezzina’s appointment as its incoming CEO/Artistic Director.

She will take up the new role in October after delivering her sixth Brisbane Festival.

Louise Bezzina. Photo © Morgan Roberts

Since taking over the Brisbane Festival’s artistic directorship in 2019, Bezzina has expanded the festival’s artistic and commercial scope. Last year’s Festival drew an audience of 1.8 million across more than 1,000 performances, contributing over $53 million to the local economy – cementing its status as Australia’s largest international arts festival.

“It’s been one of the great honours of my career,” Bezzina said. “I’m proud of what we’ve achieved and excited to deliver one final program that celebrates the energy and creativity of this city.”

Under her leadership, Brisbane Festival became the first major Australian arts festival to proceed during the COVID-19 pandemic, reimagining its format for a city-wide celebration amid lockdowns. Bezzina introduced large-scale, inclusive works like the Dreamtime-inspired drone show Skylore and the Brisbane Serenades concert series.

She also delivered acclaimed productions such as Salamander, led by international...