For this episode of Create Connects webinar series, we talk with three programmers from very different organisations in NSW — from the top end of town to artist-led initiatives — successfully delivering a range of projects and programs online, for artists, and for audiences.

Stuart Buchanan, Head of Digital Programming at the Sydney Opera House, will talk about his expansive range of digital programs, including recording and presenting long-form, live performances online.

Ali Murphy-Oates from Moogahlin Performing Arts, will talk about presenting culturally immersive programs by First Nations artists and communities, and Moogahlin's recent turn towards digital accessibility.

Based in regional NSW, Alex Wisser of Cementa talks about his organisation’s use of digital technology to create an online community of remote and regionally-based artists from around Australia, an initiative that predates COVID-19.

About the panellists

Stuart Buchanan

Stuart Buchanan is a senior arts professional in digital programming, strategy, and content, who has consistently championed innovation and transformation throughout his career. Working with organisations such as ABC, Disney, SBS, Sydney Festival and TEDxSydney, and as founder of digital agency The Nest, he has led many award-winning digital projects and campaigns. In 2019, Stuart was appointed at the Sydney Opera House to lead the development and production of original content.

Ali Murphy-Oates

Alison (Ali) Murphy-Oates is a Wailwan woman (Central-West NSW) who was born and raised on Darkinjung land (Central Coast NSW). Ali is Managing Director at Moogahlin Performing Arts developing, producing, and presenting distinctive, culturally immersive, and interdisciplinary performance works from First Peoples artists and communities. She currently serves on the boards of BlakDance Australia and Theatre Network NSW.

Alex Wisser

Alex Wisser is an artist and creative producer, who has founded and co-directed several art spaces and initiatives in Sydney. Alex’s individual arts practice focuses on large scale, long term projects through a cross disciplinary, community-engaged practice exploring the potential of art to participate in everyday cultural contexts, especially the regional context in which he lives and works. This includes Cementa, a festival which engages artists within the context of Kandos, the small town that hosts it, and the Kandos School of Cultural Adaptation.

Closed captioning can be provided. This webinar will be recorded and the recording will be published online shortly after.