Art and education were the mainstays of Michael’s upbringing and his career has been based upon the synergy between artistic pursuit as a practitioner and a passion for passing on the knowledge gained through his practice. Michael has become a formidable force within the arts in Australia designing a raft of highly acclaimed productions and events across a broad spectrum of theatrical and architectural genres: drama, opera, musicals, dance, Olympic (Sydney 2000) and National Ceremonies, restaurants (Rockpool), hotels, exhibitions, film and television. An Adjunct Professor at UNSW, he is also a highly regarded as an educator and academic. He has designed for the STC since its inception, and has continued to collaborate with each of STC’s Artistic Directors. Another great love is opera. Michael undertook the set design for the long-awaited and first all-Australian production of Wagner’s Ring Cycle, mounted by State Opera of South Australia and spanning more than 4 years. Michael was awarded Best Scenic Design. The production received worldwide acclaim and continues to be held in high regard as one of the landmark productions of Wagner’s epic work.
Michael’s understands that the whole is more than the sum of its parts – that a collaborative art form can lead to truly exceptional works of art.
