Our People
Hello! Nice to meet you. Meet the team behind the magic at Arena HQ!
Artistic Director and co-CEO
Christian Leavesley
+61 432 023 848
Christian Leavesley is the Artistic Director of Arena Theatre Company. He studied theatre at the Victorian College of the Arts, Monash University and the University of Missouri-Columbia.
Before joining Arena, Christian co-founded multi-award winning company Uncle Semolina (& friends), whose works Gilgamesh, Ticky Tacky and OT were known for their innovative use of playing space and theatrical form. His work has appeared in festivals and venues across Australia, internationally in Asia, North America and Europe. His works for Arena include Starchaser, Marlin, Marlin Expedition, Point of View, The Sleepover, Sunny Ray and the Magnificent Moon, Trapper and Air Race.
Executive Director and co-CEO
Debra Allanson
+61 419 917 575
Debra brings with her a wealth of experience in the creative industries through her work in television, film and innovative digital platforms, and deep strategic and operational management roles. She has worked extensively with start-up teams across a range of digital media businesses including an online platform for children’s creative development and expression.
Debra is a long-standing member of the Vicscreen (formerly Film Victoria) investment and incentive committee having previously been a Board member for nine years, and is a former board member of Barking Gecko, Western Australia’s theatre company for children and their families.
PHONE +61 419 917 575
Program Development & Marketing Manager
Kristen Beever
+61 424 698 403
Kristen is experienced in event management, marketing, communications, production management and audience development, spanning media (radio and television), education and the Arts. She is an experienced graphic designer and holds a Bachelor of Design (Communication Design).
Kristen has been an active member of Bendigo Theatre Company since 2014. In 2017 she co-founded Tribe Youth Theatre, providing performance and off-stage development opportunities for hundreds of local secondary school-aged children. She is a passionate advocate for the Arts and thrives on creative collaboration and learning opportunities.
PHONE +61 3 5463 5160
Associate Producer
Caitlin Williams
+61 3 5463 5160
Trained as a classical musician, Caitlin is hardwired for problem solving (and repetition!) Like a kelpie with a ball, she’s as enthusiastic about a good idea as she is about implementing it.
Caitlin has a Bachelor & Post Graduate Diploma in Music Performance from VCA and recently commenced a Masters of Business Arts & Cultural Management. Her experience extends to roles in the arts and education sectors as a performer, teacher and administrator, including ticketing and front of house management. Alongside working at Arena, Caitlin currently teaches instrumental music at Candlebark School and is Chair of Melbourne String Ensembles.