Our Team
Hello! Nice to meet you. We are the team behind the magic at Arena HQ!

Debra Allanson
Chief Executive
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. CONTACT +61 419 917 575 debra@arenatheatre.com.au

Christian Leavesley
Artistic Director
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. CONTACT +61 432 023 848 christian@arenatheatre.com.au

Kristen Beever
Program Development Manager
Kristen Beever is a creative producer and designer who works across theatre, education, events and community projects. With experience spanning radio, television, local government and the arts in Australia and the UK, she brings a practical approach to event production, marketing and audience engagement. She holds a Bachelor of Design and is studying for a Masters of Teaching. Theatre is Kristen’s happy place — whether she’s making it or watching it. She’s a co-founder of Tribe Youth Theatre, a committee member at Bendigo Theatre Company, and a board member of the Ulumbarra Foundation. She also volunteers her time with the Bendigo Symphony Orchestra and the Music Theatre Guild of Victoria. Kristen thrives on collaborative projects and values the sense of connection, creativity and community that live performance makes possible.

Fionna Allan
Executive Officer
Fionna is a creative project manager and producer with a 25yr+ background in tour management, venue booking, television production, festival operations, community radio, kitchen discos and more. Fionna is driven by connecting community and is passionate about supporting musicians and the creative industries, particularly those based in Regional Victoria. She spent 12 years living and working in Wales, and also loves road trips and music festivals.