Marta Dusseldorp, Behrouz Boochani and Emmy Award winner Lynette Wallworth will join local and University talent to launch a new series, The Hedberg Talks, as part of the Ten Days on the Island Festival Hub.

The University of Tasmania and the Theatre Royal are partnering to present this new annual program of compelling and thought-provoking conversations with some of our most creative minds.

The close-up and personal talks will take place in the stunning Ian Potter Recital Hall inside the award-winning performing arts centre, The Hedberg.

“We want to hear new, challenging and inspiring ideas from creative thinkers,” College of Arts, Law and Education Executive Dean Professor Kate Darian-Smith said.

“We want to know how these ideas can help us grow, in the arts and as a community.”

The series kicks off with eight talks over the Ten Days on the Island festival weekend, each digging a little deeper into the themes and ideas presented in the festival program.

Women of Troy star Marta Dusseldorp will join author Behrouz Boochani and Professor Darian-Smith for a discussion about the role of women in civil uprisings, ‘Fermenting’ dissent.

Lynette Wallworth will join festival director Lindy Hume and media lecturer Kathleen Williams to discuss Lynette’s new work HOW TO LIVE (After You Die) and the use of immersive media.

Other talks will focus on topics as diverse as 18th Century cross-dressing farmers and our fascination with the avoidable tragedy of the thylacine.

Located in the heart of nipaluna/Hobart, The Hedberg brings together the Theatre Royal and the University of Tasmania in a world-class cultural precinct that also houses the Conservatorium of Music.

“The Hedberg belongs to the city and we want the city to feel part of it,” Professor Darian-Smith said.

“It is fast becoming a hub where our music and performance students mix with local and visiting artists and the community. This program also spotlights our ongoing partnership with the Theatre Royal in delivering something unique for Hobart and Tasmanian audiences.”

“Together with the University, we are able to deliver new activities and experiences that extend beyond a stage or a classroom and make these buildings and institutions more accessible to our community,” Simon Wellington, CEO Theatre Royal said.

“This collaboration will realise our shared ambition to be a vibrant centre of culture and ideas, that is open and welcoming to everyone.” 

As well as The Hedberg Talks, the Festival Hub will open throughout the Hobart leg of the event with food, drinks, incredible performances and live music.

The Ten Days on the Island Festival series of The Hedberg Talks takes place March 10-12 over the long weekend. Entry is free but registration is required for this exciting new program.