The Adelaide Festival, one of Australia's premier cultural events, is set for a significant leadership transition in 2026. The festival's board will welcome three prominent South Australian figures, bringing a powerful blend of artistic, media, and financial expertise to guide its future.
A Dynamic Trio Takes the Helm
The incoming board members represent a strategic infusion of talent. Lee-Ann Tjunypa Buckskin, a respected Narungga, Kaurna, and Wirangu woman, will join as Deputy Chair. Currently the Deputy Chair of the Australia Council for the Arts, Buckskin is a formidable advocate for First Nations arts and culture. Her appointment signals the festival's deepening commitment to Indigenous leadership and storytelling.
Alongside her will be Rosanna Mangiarelli, a familiar face to many as a presenter on Seven News Adelaide. Mangiarelli brings her profile and deep community connections to the role, offering a valuable bridge between the festival and the wider South Australian public. Completing the trio is Andrew Porter, a seasoned finance professional and Managing Director of Porter Finance. His financial acumen is expected to provide crucial stewardship for the festival's economic sustainability and growth.
Steering a Cultural Powerhouse Forward
This leadership refresh comes at a pivotal time for the Adelaide Festival. The new board members will work alongside continuing Chair Professor Kevin Fewster and fellow directors to shape the artistic and strategic direction of the event. Their collective mandate is to build on the festival's esteemed legacy, ensuring it remains innovative, financially robust, and deeply connected to its community.
The appointments have been met with enthusiasm from the arts sector. Professor Fewster highlighted the "immense experience and diverse perspectives" the new members bring. He noted that Buckskin's national arts leadership, Mangiarelli's media insight, and Porter's financial expertise create an ideal team to navigate the challenges and opportunities facing major cultural institutions today.
Implications for the Festival's Future
The reconstituted board is expected to influence several key areas. Firstly, Buckskin's leadership will likely further embed First Nations arts as a central pillar of the festival's programming, not just a component. Secondly, Mangiarelli's involvement could enhance audience engagement and broaden the festival's appeal across demographics. Finally, Porter's financial guidance will be critical in securing the event's long-term viability in an increasingly competitive funding landscape.
This move underscores the Adelaide Festival's proactive approach to governance, blending artistic vision with strategic pragmatism. As the festival prepares for its 2026 edition, the new board's combined skills in advocacy, communication, and fiscal management position it strongly to elevate Adelaide's status on the global arts stage. The community will be watching keenly to see how this influential trio helps sculpt the next chapter of this iconic Australian event.
