After three years as Artistic Director of Tantrum Theatre Brendan O'Connell is heading off to Melbourne to pursue his own endevours in Theatre.

"I've had an amazing time here at the company, and the development I've seen in all our participants over the past three years is truly heartening. While I'm sad to be leaving, I am confident that the company will continue to build on its successes and continue to be the leading arts organisation in the Hunter region." says Brendan O'Connell.

Replacing Brendan is Toni Main from South Australia.

"I believe Tantrum Theatre is ready for its next phase of growth as Australia’s gutsiest theatre for young people, and I look forward to seeing it continue to flourish under the direction of incoming AD Toni Main. She will of course be ably supported and encouraged by GM Justine Potter, Associate Director Rachel Jackett and Marketing Coordinator Sarah Coffee. While Rachel and Sarah are just settling in to their new roles, both are well versed in the company and have huge potential to offer; while Justine has been an incredible cornerstone of love and generosity throughout my three years as AD. Toni couldn’t ask for a stronger team to be working with, and I’d like to wish her all the best in leading one of this country’s finest youth arts organisations."

Toni has been the Artistic Director of the Southern Youth Theatre Ensemble (SYTE) for the past two years, directing works such as Steam Island (Come Out Festival 2011), Retaliation (2010, nominated Adelaide Critics Circle Awards) and Party House (2009, nominated Ruby Awards SA). Toni has worked with a range of companies such as Windmill Theatre Company, Urban Myth Theatre for Youth, Carclew Youth Arts and Instigate Theatre Productions of which she is a founding member.

Toni is thrilled about moving to Newcastle and taking on her new role with Tantrum, particularly in the company’s 35th anniversary year.

"I’m very excited about it. I think it’s the perfect next stage in my career.

"I love the motto of the company, “theatre with guts,” and I think I’m bringing a whole new lot of guts to the table." she said.

Tantrum Theatre is delighted to welcome Toni to the team and looks forward to working with her to maintain Tantrum’s place as one of Australia’s most innovative youth arts organisations.

"All of us at Tantrum are enthusiastic about working with Toni and invite you to continue to participate and support Tantrum under her leadership." Chairperson Terence Mahony said.

For all media enquiries please contact Marketing Coordinator Sarah Coffee on 0439 119 908.