LOCAL arts identity Arthur Frame has been made an Honorary Life Member of the National Trust of Australia (Queensland), recognising a remarkable career that has shaped theatre, education, arts administration and cultural leadership for more than 50 years.
The honour comes as Arthur celebrates the release of his new memoir, The Arts Juggler, launched at the Ipswich Incinerator Theatre – the very stage where his artistic journey began.
While many in recent years have come to know Arthur through his coordination of the National Trust’s Great Houses of Ipswich program, his creative footprint extends far beyond heritage circles.
Nine years ago, he realised he held a lifetime of stories worth preserving – tales rich with personal reflection and historical insight into the formative years of theatre in Brisbane and Ipswich.
That sparked the long, careful process of shaping his memoir.
His connection to Ipswich Little Theatre is deep and enduring, with decades spent acting, directing and nurturing emerging performers.
Between 1965 and 2015, he worked on 175 theatre productions and oversaw hundreds more during his influential tenure with the Queensland Arts Council.
His leadership included 11 years as Director of Theatre in Education, followed by 16 years as Artistic Director and CEO – roles that cemented him as one of Queensland’s most dedicated advocates for youth arts and regional arts development.
The Arts Juggler brings Arthur’s extraordinary journey full circle – from the Ipswich stage where it all began to the national arenas where he helped shape Australia’s cultural landscape.
Just as his newly awarded Honorary Life Membership of the National Trust of Australia (Queensland) recognises a lifetime of service, the book stands as a testament to the stories, people and creative milestones that shaped his remarkable career.
