Welcome to our new Board Directors!
Monkey Baa Theatre Company is excited to announce the appointment of three new Board Directors: Amy Payten, Jo Dyer and Claudia Chidiac. Each brings a wealth of experience and unique skills that will help guide the company as it continues to grow and make a lasting impact on young audiences across Australia.
This is a significant moment for Monkey Baa, as it strengthens its role as a national leader in theatre for young people. With their expertise in theatre, education, philanthropy, and producing, the new directors will support Monkey Baa’s vision of bringing transformative theatre experiences to more young people.
Claudia Chidiac, a creative producer and artist with over 20 years of experience, joins the Board with a deep understanding of how the arts can transform lives. Claudia has spearheaded community-driven projects like the Hive Festival and the Way Out West (WOW) Festival. Her belief in amplifying the voices of young people through creative expression makes her an important voice on the Board, ensuring Monkey Baa remains a leader in innovative and inclusive theatre practices.
Jo Dyer is a writer, literary curator and producer of theatre and film. Most recently, she was Director of Adelaide Writers’ Week, having also held leadership roles at national cultural institutions, including CEO of Sydney Writers’ Festival, Executive Producer of Sydney Theatre Company and General Manager of Bangarra Dance Theatre. Through her company Soft Tread Enterprises, Jo has produced acclaimed works that have been staged at iconic venues around the world. She has a deep passion for storytelling across mediums and will bring this expertise to Monkey Baa’s mission to expand its reach to young audiences.
Amy Payten, Head of Drama at St Catherine’s School, is a passionate Drama educator with training from NIDA, NYU and UNSW. In addition to her work in education, Amy has been deeply involved in not-for-profit initiatives with the Sony Foundation, Macquarie Foundation and the Robertson Foundation. Her commitment to inspiring young people through theatre aligns with Monkey Baa’s mission to empower young audiences through creative experiences.
These appointments follow the earlier announcement of Professor Judith McLean as Chair. Judith’s leadership has played a key role in shaping Monkey Baa’s direction and ensuring that its focus remains on delivering exceptional live theatre experiences for young people.
Professor Judith McLean commented, “We are thrilled to have Amy, Jo, and Claudia join the Board at this exciting time. Their combined expertise will bring fresh perspectives and energy as we continue to expand Monkey Baa’s influence and provide more young people with access to inspiring theatre. Their commitment to making a difference perfectly aligns with our vision.” Judith added, “Monkey Baa is well-positioned to continue growing its impact across the country, and the leadership from our new Board members will be instrumental in ensuring that we stay true to our mission of creating world-class theatre for young people.”
