FORCE MAJEURE INVITES PROPOSALS FOR NEW ARTISTIC LEADERSHIP
ABOUT
Founded in 2002 by Kate Champion, Force Majeure emerged as a ground-breaking innovator in Australian contemporary dance and theatre.
Currently based at Carriageworks on Gadigal land, the company is one of Australia’s leading producers of movement-based theatre – a catalyst for profound, body-led storytelling that moves audiences to see, feel and connect with the world in unexpected ways.
Since 2015, under the artistic direction of Danielle Micich, Force Majeure has deepened its distinctive approach to embodied storytelling, creating unforgettable performances and nurturing artists through its acclaimed INCITE program.
THE OPPORTUNITY & CONTEXT
Force Majeure enters a pivotal new chapter as Danielle Micich steps down as Artistic Director after 10 years. With confirmed annual funding from Create NSW through 2028, but at a reduced level, the company faces a significant financial transition. This moment of recalibration opens the door to reimagining how an innovative, small arts company can thrive within Australia’s evolving cultural landscape.
The Force Majeure Board invites proposals from visionary artistic leaders to shape a new model of leadership – one that is both artistically ambitious and financially sustainable. We seek approaches that recognise current funding realities while leveraging the company’s strong foundations.
With a strategic use of reserves over the next four years, Force Majeure will sustain its core operations while adopting a more entrepreneurial and partnership-driven business model. This shift calls for leadership that embraces collaboration, co-investment, new revenue streams, and inventive pathways to commissioning, producing, and presenting new work.
We are open to flexible leadership structures, including:
Part-time arrangements, with potential full-time periods during production peaks
Shared or hybrid leadership roles
Alternative company locations, whether elsewhere in Sydney, another metropolitan centre, or a regional base
There is scope to build upon Force Majeure’s existing strengths – such as the growth of the INCITE artist development programs, new co-production models, and expanded philanthropic and project-based funding – to sustain the creation of new work.
Force Majeure’s next phase will be defined by adaptability, imagination, and a commitment to long-term sustainability.
We welcome Expressions of Interest from artistic leaders who see this financial and creative transition not as a constraint, but as an opportunity to reimagine how a contemporary performance company can evolve and endure.
PROCESS AND TIMELINE
This Expression of Interest process is led by REA arts + culture.
Interested parties are invited to contact REA to obtain a copy of the Force Majeure EOI document before 14 November, and a confidential discussion.
Before lodging an EOI, it is essential you contact Vanessa Duscio before 14 November 2025. All enquiries are treated confidentially.
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST DEADLINE
Expression of Interest submissions are due before close of business on Friday 21 November.
After proposals are received, the Force Majeure Recruitment Committee will determine who is shortlisted for interview. Interviews will be held in December.
Contact for more info : vanessa@reaartsandculture.com