The University of Sydney has announced the appointment of arts leader Joanne Kee as the new Artistic Director of the Seymour Centre, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the university’s three-auditorium performance venue. Kee will commence in October.

Known for her visionary leadership as Executive and Creative Producer of Riverside’s National Theatre of Parramatta, Kee has spent more than three decades working across theatre, music and dance.

Her appointment comes as the Seymour Centre celebrates its 50th anniversary and looks to strengthen its role as a creative and cultural hub for Sydney.

Joanne Kee, new Artistic Director for the Seymour Centre. Photo © Stefanie Zingsheim/University of Sydney

“Joanne brings deep experience, a strong creative vision and a genuine commitment to inclusion,” said Kirsten Andrews, USYD’s Vice-President (External Engagement). “She’s spent years championing artists and communities in Western Sydney, and she’s now bringing that energy and knowledge into the heart of our campus.”

The university’s Director of Museums and Cultural Engagement Michael Dagostino added, “[Joanne’s] ability to build a genuine community around a place is what excites me most. I’ve followed her work at Riverside’s National Theatre of Parramatta and have always admired how she creates space for artists and audiences to connect meaningfully.”

During her tenure at the National Theatre of Parramatta, Kee helped transform the company into a nationally recognised producing house, delivering more than 50 productions, 20 new works and attracting $8 million in new investment.

She previously served as Artistic Director of the Sydney Improvised Music Association (SIMA), where she founded the Sydney International Women’s Jazz Festival, and has held senior roles at the Sydney Opera House, The Song Company, Café Carnivale and Critical Path.

The Seymour Centre. Photo supplied

Kee said she was honoured to lead the Seymour Centre into its next era. “The Seymour Centre has always been one of Sydney’s great meeting places for ideas and performance. My vision is to build on that extraordinary legacy by presenting landmark theatrical and musical works that spark conversation, connection and pride in our city.”

Kee succeeds Tim Jones, who stepped down earlier this year after 16 years as Artistic Director and General Manager.

Founded in 1975, the Seymour Centre remains a cornerstone of Sydney’s cultural landscape, presenting independent theatre, major festivals and education programs for more than 40,000 students annually.