Charlie Cush
CEO, Brisbane Festival
Charlie is the CEO of Brisbane Festival, one of the city’s most anticipated annual events, celebrating arts and culture. In 2020, it was among the first major live performance events during COVID-19, employing 1,000+ artists, commissioning 28 new works, and delivering 573 performances citywide.
Previously, as General Manager of Circa Contemporary Circus (2013–2018), he led its global success, securing key contracts like the Commonwealth Games Arts Festival. Charlie has held senior arts and government roles, shaping Brisbane’s creative landscape. He holds multiple degrees, including a Master of Arts in Cultural Leadership, and serves on Queensland’s Night-Life Economy Advisory Panel.