NIDA welcomes Rhoda Roberts AO

The National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) has announced Rhoda Roberts AO has joined the organisation as First Nations Consultant.

CEO Liz Hughes Said:

Over the past couple of months since joining us Rhoda has already made a very special impact on NIDA students and staff and we are delighted she has brought her years of performing arts experience to provide NIDA with insight and expertise to influence First Nations strategies and actions.

Rhoda’s work will include building cultural consciousness and awareness, action planning for reconciliation and creating networks to foster and embed First Nations connections across the organisation, and into industry.

Rhoda Roberts AO Said:

Australians tell stories, it’s what we do well, from our local stages to the big screens, NIDA alumni and their presence across the industry is being felt globally.

The commitment of the executive to ensure there is a place at the table for us all, is one that will ensure artistic integrity, provocation that will be rewarding, as we increase our cultural contribution with a depth that reflects the narrative and the truth telling of those untold stories, from the next generation of First Nations writers, directors, and performers. Heady and challenging times ahead.

A Widjabul/Wieybal woman from the Bundjalung territories Rhoda is an experienced motivated and versatile arts executive, with a diverse range of international and national industry practice within commercial, community and non-profit organisations. In 2016, Rhoda received an AO for distinguished service to the performing arts, leadership, advocacy and promoting contemporary Indigenous culture.

Rhoda is the former Head of First Nations Programming for the Sydney Opera House, is Festival Director of the Boomerang Festival / Bluesfest, Festival Curator of the Parrtjima Festival (NT), and Creative Director First Nations Programming – Northern Rivers Performing Arts (NORPA).

A practicing weaver and as an actor/producer and director, she continues to work as a consultant, is a sought-after speaker and performer in theatre, film, television and radio.