LIZ Jones has devoted her life to the performing arts, including 36 years as artistic director of La Mama Theatre.
In recognition, the Williamstown resident and mother-of-five was appointed an Officer (AO) of the Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday honours.
“The really serious step I took in my life as a performing artist was agreeing to become the artistic director of La Mama Theatre,” says Jones, who trained as a history and English literature teacher before taking on the role in 1976.
“The most important part of my job is selecting scripts, finding artists, bringing people together, facilitating and curating the artists program.”
Jones was also recognised for promoting indigenous playwrights and actors.
She is performing in the play Coranderrk: We Will Show the Country, produced by the Ilbijerri Theatre Company.
Jones has done more performing in her 60s than at any other time in her life.
“I really love performing but love being involved in the day-to-day running of the theatre, making it vibrant, alive, open and accessible,” she says.
Her commitment to theatre extends to committees and board roles including on the Women’s Playwright International and the Chamber Made Opera.
The Queen’s Honour adds to a collection of awards including Victorian Honour Roll of Women induction in 2002 and an honorary doctorate from Australian National University.
Jones hopes to stay on as La Mama Theatre’s artistic director and to be involved in the performing arts for the rest of her life.
