Qld Theatre artistic director Lee Lewis steps down after only four years

Lee Lewis’s departure follows that of Li Cunxin last year from Queensland Ballet and the impending exit of John Kotzas from QPAC later this year.

Queensland Theatre artistic director Lee Lewis, Paul Hodge and QT executive director Criena Gehrke. Picture: Richard Walker

In yet another changing of the guard in the arts world, Queensland Theatre’s artistic director Lee Lewis has quit after only four years.

It comes as the company’s successful production of Gaslight – an adaptation of Patrick Hamilton’s 1938 thriller – is touring Australia.

Ms Lewis, who steered QT through the rigours of the pandemic, said her decision to move on was in the best interests of the company.

Queensland Theatre’s artistic director Lee Lewis in October 2023. Picture: Richard Walker

“I’ve made this decision to step down as artistic director of Queensland Theatre with a certain sadness, but with the best interests of the company in mind,” she said.

“After carrying the weight of leadership for this extraordinary company for four years, through the hardest time in history, I feel it is best for new energy to inspire artists and audiences alike.

“I feel great pride that I leave at the beginning of a season that promises a diversity of experience that is thrilling, ambitious and inviting.”

Lewis’s department follows that of Li Cunxin last year from Queensland Ballet and the impending exit of John Kotzas from QPAC later this year.

Queensland Theatre artistic director Lee Lewis, Paul Hodge and QT executive director Criena Gehrke. Picture: Richard Walker

Ms Lewis moved from Sydney’s Griffin Theatre Company for the top job in 2019.

QT board chairwoman Elizabeth Jameson said Ms Lewis was “an exceptional director and storyteller” and was grateful for her stewardship over the past four years.

“This has been an extraordinary time for the company as we navigated the disruption of Covid, floods and a changing world,” Ms Jameson said.

“Throughout it all, Lee has been steadfast in her belief in the power of theatre to make a difference to the world.”

Recruitment is under way, with executive director Criena Gehrke supporting the three associate artistic directors in their roles.

Read Queensland Theatre’s statement here.