The Little Red Company has today announced that celebrated arts leader Katherine Hoepper will join the company as its inaugural Executive Director.

Ms Hoepper has more than 25 years’ experience with companies, festivals, independent artists and venues; the past two years as Programming Director at the iconic Brisbane Powerhouse and previously as Executive Director at Queensland’s oldest continuously-running theatre company, La Boite.

The landmark appointment caps off a remarkable year for Little Red which has seen three world premiere productions, two return seasons, a sold-out QPAC Concert Hall debut and the appointment as executive producer of Brisbane’s Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols for the next four years.

Little Red was also recently announced as a recipient of multi-year organisations funding via Arts Queensland and was a finalist for Outstanding Micro Business at the Lord Mayor’s Business Awards.

Ms Hoepper said she was thrilled to join the Little Red team and work closely with co-founders Naomi Price and Adam Brunes to lead the company into its second decade of operation.

“It’s been my absolute pleasure to work with the Little Red team on many projects over their 10-year history, as co-producer, programmer and venue partner,” Ms Hoepper said.

“This opportunity to work alongside Naomi and Adam in realising their vision was one I couldn’t pass up. They share my commitment to creating employment opportunities for artists, delighting and impacting audiences, and building a diverse and sustainable arts sector.

“Little Red has achieved so much in its 10-year history but I know the best is still to come and I can’t wait to get started.”

Ms Hoepper extended her thanks and gratitude to her Brisbane Powerhouse colleagues.

“I have loved working at Brisbane Powerhouse and must pay tribute to the incredible team who worked with passion and dedication to keep Brisbane Powerhouse open and presenting work through the COVID-19 crisis,” Ms Hoepper said.

“I am truly excited by new CEO/Artistic Director Kate Gould’s vision for Brisbane Powerhouse and look forward to being back really soon presenting work in this beautiful building.”

Little Red Co-Founder and Artistic Director, Green Room Award-winner Naomi Price, said Ms Hoepper’s appointment would accelerate the company’s commitment to artist employment, the development of new work and elevating Queensland artists.

“This is an incredible coup for Little Red and will allow us to continue our upwards trajectory with focus and precision as we head into our 10th year in 2022,” Price said.

“Katherine has played a pivotal role in many of Little Red’s company milestones over the years in her roles at Brisbane Powerhouse, La Boite and Queensland Theatre, including championing the debut seasons of Little Red hits Lady Beatle, Christmas Actually and There’s Something About Music.

“Her industry contributions are countless, but most importantly, she leads with kindness, advocates for arts for everyone, and has a demonstrable commitment to fostering the development of the next generation of Australian artists and arts makers.

“I have admired her as a mentor and peer for more than a decade and am overjoyed to be embarking on this next journey together.”

Ms Hoepper will commence in the role on 17 January 2022 ahead of Little Red’s 2022 season opener Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves, premiering at Brisbane Powerhouse on 17 February.