Brisbane-born Elise Kinnon always knew she was destined for the stage. After training at The Conroy Dance Centre and performing with Universal Studios Japan at 18, she carved out a dynamic career spanning Broadway tours and Hollywood films. Now based in NYC, she shares the highs and lows of life as a performer, from dazzling on stage to dancing on the big screen in Wonka.
Originally from Adelaide, Dr Emily Matheson, a research consultant who leads global mental health initiatives, moved to England for a new job after finishing her PhD in Clinical Psychology, before making another transcontinental shift to New York to be with her (now) husband. She’s recently launched New York Transplants, where she will be exploring what community means and how she and other transplants can feel a greater sense of belonging and grounding in New York City.
Antoinette, a recently retired diplomat with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, served globally in Bangkok, Brussels, Istanbul, Rome, Nicosia, and Berlin. She holds multiple degrees, including an Honours in Arts and a Master’s in TESOL, and is also an author and musician
As the first-ever jazz voice graduate student at the prestigious New York institution, The Juilliard School, jazz singer and performer Olivia Chindamo is a trailblazer Aussie musician, helping to pave the way for future vocalists in the city.
Jillian Geurts, Co-Founder and Co-Artistic Director of the Australian Theatre Festival, has been pivotal in bringing Australian stories to New York’s stage since the festival’s launch in 2019. With the 2024 Gala honoring Tony Award-nominee Eddie Perfect approaching, Jillian’s incredible contributions to showcasing Australia’s vibrant creativity are in the spotlight.