Creative Australia acknowledges the passing of writer, dramaturg, editor and performer, Keith Gallasch AM.
Keith was a cherished figure in the Australian arts community, renowned for his generosity, curiosity, and unwavering advocacy that resonated throughout the sector.
A founding member of Troupe Theatre Company and Open City, Keith’s work enriched Australian theatre, fostering collaborations and nurturing emerging talent. His association with Performance Space in Sydney and numerous theatre groups, including the State Theatre Company of South Australia, underscored his dedication to artistic expression and innovation.
In 1994, alongside his long-time collaborator, Virginia Baxter, Keith co-founded RealTime, a groundbreaking magazine devoted to documenting and championing innovation in the arts worldwide. As its Managing Editor, Keith’s vision and leadership gave voice to contemporary artists and ideas, shaping critical discourse and fostering a thriving creative community. This detailed interrogation and celebration of the industry lives on in the treasure trove that is the archives of RealTime online.
Keith had a long association with Creative Australia (formerly the Australia Council for the Arts), receiving multiple grants as a playwright and dramaturg and serving as a theatre and music assessor. Alongside Virginia Baxter, Keith was commissioned as an editor for the highly respected and internationally distributed In Repertoire series (1999-2004) promoting tourable Australian contemporary performance, music theatre, dance, Indigenous arts, new media art and theatre for young people.
In recognition of his contributions to the arts, Keith was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2022.
Creative Australia Executive Director Arts Investment Alice Nash said:
“Keith Gallasch’s legacy is one of dedication, collaboration, and an enduring love for the arts. With a passion for innovation, Keith left an indelible mark on countless creative endeavours and the people who shared his journey. We extend our deepest sympathies to Keith’s family, friends and colleagues at this sad time.”
Vale
Keith Gallasch AM 1945 – 2025
