In Conversation with Mitchell Butel

Sunday 23 August 2026 | 2pm

Approximately 75 minutes – no interval

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Exclusive to the Festival of New Work, this event features Sydney Theatre Company’s Artistic Director Mitchell Butel in conversation with Hayes Theatre Co’s Artistic Directors Richard Carroll and Victoria Falconer, for an open conversation about making and programming new work, artistic decision-making, and the evolving landscape of Australian theatre.

Previous In Conversation events at the Festival have featured guests such as Griffin’s Artistic Director Declan Greene, Sydney Theatre Company’s Director of New Work, and Queensland Theatre’s Artistic Director Dan Evans. These intimate events offer a candid, generous and practical conversation filled with personal experiences and real talk about the joys and challenges of leading artistic vision in Australia today, and how independent artists and producers can build relationships with companies of all sizes.

 

Mitchell Butel

Mitchell Butel is a multi-awarded director, performer, writer and producer and Sydney Theatre Company’s Artistic Director and Co-CEO.

Mitchell has worked on over 200 professional productions and holds four Helpmann Awards, four Sydney Theatre Awards and two Victorian Green Room Awards for his work as a director and actor in Australia.

He has also worked in New York, London, Hong Kong and New Zealand. He has worked extensively for State Theatre Company South Australia, Sydney Theatre Company, Melbourne Theatre Company, Queensland Theatre, Belvoir, Bell Shakespeare, Griffin, Malthouse, Opera Australia, Sydney Chamber Opera, Pinchgut Opera, The Production Company, The Hayes Theatre and for the Sydney, Adelaide and Perth Festivals.

Mitchell was Artistic Director and Co-CEO of State Theatre Company South Australia from 2019 to 2024.

 

Prices

Full price | $10

Festival pass 20% off | $8

Content warnings

None

Times

Sunday 23 August | 2pm

Running Time

Approximately 75 minutes – no interval

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible

Additional Info

Booking Information
Terms & Conditions of Sale

 

From our 2025 panel talks

 

FAQs

  • Accessible seating

    A limited number of accessible seats are available in the front row of the theatre (A13-A15). These, as well as Companion seats, can be purchased through the ‘Book Now’ link.

    Please contact the box office on (02) 8065 7337  or visit our Accessibility Page if you have any questions regarding our accessibility.

  • Is the venue accessible?

    Hayes Theatre Co is accessible to everyone. We encourage all customers with access requirements to get in touch with us so we can discuss your requirements. Our theatre includes road-to-stage step-free access, and we have several dedicated accessible seating areas.

    A lift operates from the theatre entrance to the foyer and entry to the auditorium is via the side door located off the balcony for those who have difficulty managing stairs. Please speak to the Box Office Assistant upon arrival at your performance to arrange access. Our staff and volunteer crew will assist in navigating these access points.

  • How do I get there?

    Train, bus, car – whatever your heart desires! Hayes Theatre Co is located in the heart of Potts Point and is just a short walk from the 311-bus stop and Kings Cross Train Station. For more info, head to transportnsw.info

  • Is there parking available?

    Discount parking is available from the Kings Cross Parking Station (entrance on Ward Avenue). Bring your parking ticket with you to the theatre and have it validated at our Box Office for $18 parking. Further discounts apply for parking after 6pm or on weekends.

    Limited 1 hour (free after 5 pm) street parking is available around the area. Please note the parking signs as to restrictions.

  • Are there restrooms available on-site?

    Yes, we have multiple restrooms on-site! At Hayes we welcome gender diversity and encourage everyone to use the restroom that best fits your gender identity or expression.

    There is one accessible toilet on the foyer level. There are also two ambulant toilets located within the male and female bathrooms.

Hayes Theatre Co's Festival of New Work is generously supported by

In Conversation with Mitchell Butel

Sunday 23 August 2026 | 2pm

Approximately 75 minutes – no interval