Sydney Festival amplifies First Nations leadership with key creative producer appointment

Sydney Festival has appointed Aidan Rowlingson as its new Creative Producer – First Nations, effective July 2025 with the role helping to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories, traditions, and contemporary expressions are at the heart of Sydney’s premier summer celebration.

The role is an evolution of the former Creative Artist in Residence position. In this capacity, Rowlingson will devise the Festival’s First Nations programming, complementing the artistic leadership of Festival Director Kris Nelson. Rowlingson takes on the role following the distinguished tenure of Jacob Nash, who will present his final Blak Out program in 2026, marking both his remarkable contribution and the Festival’s 50th anniversary.

A proud Butchulla man, Rowlingson is a writer, director, creative producer, and multi-disciplinary artist whose work spans festivals and theatre, with a strong track record in First Nations-led programming and community-engaged arts practice. Recently Associate Producer – First Nations at QPAC, he has led projects such as Warriors (2024) and BlakBeats, and his acclaimed debut play Capricorn premiered at La Boite Theatre in 2023.

Kris Nelson, Sydney Festival Director notes “Aidan is an exceptional artist and cultural leader whose bold vision, deep community connection, and strong producing skills make him the ideal person to shape and drive the next chapter of First Nations programming at Sydney Festival. Building on the extraordinary legacy of Jacob Nash, Aidan brings a dynamic and collaborative approach that will continue to amplify Blak voices and stories in powerful new ways. I’m thrilled to welcome him to Sydney into this key leadership role and can’t wait to see the work he will make possible.”

Commenting on his new role, Rowlingson enthused “I am very excited to take up this position at Sydney Festival, building from the immense contributions of Jake Nash and his commitment to culture, community, and holding space for important conversations.

“This opportunity means I get to continue my passion for creating meaningful and fruitful creative pathways for our mob. I know Kris Nelson shares my passion for supporting emerging artists, new work, and creating memories for diverse audiences. As I look ahead. I’m focused on listening, learning, and establishing meaningful connections with this incredible city.”

Jacob Nash added “I’m really looking forward to welcoming Butchulla man Aidan Rowlingson into this role at Sydney Festival, and to working closely with him in the lead-up to what is shaping up to be an incredibly powerful Blak Out program for the Festival’s landmark 50th year.”

Kate Dundas, Chair of Sydney Festival shared “we are thrilled to welcome Aidan to the team at Sydney Festival. His passion and talent for showcasing exceptional First Nations work and encouraging emerging artists is where the Festival shines brightest. While we will definitely miss Jake’s insights, work, advice and commitment to the Blak Out program, welcoming new creative talent is part of our DNA.”

Sydney Festival 2026 will take place from 8th – 25th January 2026 and will be the Festival’s 50th edition.