The Conversation

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Analysis

Reading alone, together is all the rage at book doofs and reading parties – what makes it social?

Reading events are often promoted as a chance to get away from screens and find community.

The cover of Hilary McPhee's autobiography Other People's Words.
Opinions & Analysis

Literary pioneer Hilary McPhee launched Helen Garner, published Cloudstreet – and inspired me

McPhee’s business acumen, creativity and incredible track record made her a titan of the Australian publishing industry.

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Features

Stage manager is arguably the most stressful job in live performance – here’s why

Stage managers report high levels of anxiety, loneliness and burnout.

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Analysis

An opt‑out system for AI companies to access creative works doesn’t gel with Australia’s copyright laws

Forcing creatives to opt out of AI models impedes their rights under the Copyright Act, because it forces them to…

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Analysis

Theatre audiences still show up – so why do so many shows fail to make money?

The cost of wages, venues and materials keep rising with the rest of the economy, while the product of theatre…

Presented at OzAsia in 2025, Opera for the Dead has also been presented at AsiaTOPA, Sydney Festival and elsewhere. Photo: Michael Pham.
Analysis

OzAsia Festival to end after 20 years, in a huge blow for Asian‑Australian art and culture

This will be the last OzAsia, with Adelaide Festival Centre declaring a move to year-round programming of Asian voices instead.

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Features

Arts Centre Melbourne workers face a battle between industrial and cultural policy

Union negotiations at Arts Centre Melbourne show that in the arts, demands for better pay are often inseparable from questions…

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Features

Who should assume the risk when art gets controversial – the artist or their employer?

Tensions around arts boards reveal divided opinions about artistic risk and freedom of expression.

All Together Now at Brisbane Festival in 2025. The festival Photo: Atmosphere Photography.
Analysis

Nearly every Australian engages with arts and culture – politicians should pay attention

The data shows arts and culture is woven into the fabric of Australian life.

The late, great Dolly Parton. Photo: Wes McFee on Unsplash.
Opinions & Analysis

Dolly Parton's genius in 3 great songs

Jolene, I Will Always Love You and 9 to 5 showcase the incredible talent of the late, great Dolly Parton.

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