John Bell - Communication - One of the nation’s most illustrious theatre ...

Travels From New South Wales

Speaker Topics

Leadership Lessons in Shakespeare

Giving a voice to some of the most infamous and complex figures of our time – William Shakespeare’s talents offer glimpses of insight into some of the most fascinating minds in history. So, what can we learn from these fallible yet formidable characters? As with Bell Shakespeare, the Australian theatre company he founded and directed for over 25 years, John Bell believes that theatre allows audiences to see themselves reflected and transformed through the prism of Shakespeare's writing. Shakespeare provides many examples of outstanding leadership as well as those who made disastrous mistakes. In this spellbinding keynote, John draws special reference to Julius Caesar, Mark Anthony and Octavius Caesar, Richard II, Henry IV and Henry V. Their unique lessons in leadership are explored through insightful commentary, flecked with humour and interpreted with readings. Read less

Write Your Own Script: Lessons in Leadership and Business

After founding the Bell Shakespeare Company in 1990, John Bell has learned a great deal from his many monumental experiences of failure as well as business success after creating two theatre companies and more than 25 years as founder and artistic director. Credited for his significant contributions national culture, John has played a pivotal role in the formation of Australian theatre. He was awarded the Dame Elisabeth Murdoch Cultural Leadership Award in 2003. In this fascinating keynote, audiences are inspired to pursue their passions and write their own script; walking away with leadership lessons from an entirely unique perspective, as well as deep insights into John's journey from humble beginnings to now. Read less

John Bell

One of the nation’s most illustrious theatre personalities

John Bell is a trailblazer and has been a key figure in shaping Australia’s theatrical identity. Working within the industry for the past 50 years, John is an award-winning actor, acclaimed director, risk-taking impresario, educational leader, and speaker.

Founding The Bell Shakespeare Company in 1990, John served as Director until 2015. Under this role, John’s productions have included over 15 of Shakespeare’s greatest works to an audience of over 2.5 million Australians.

For his work, John has received recognition for his leadership and contribution to national culture. His work has seen him become an Officer of the Order of Australia and received an Order of the British Empire. John holds an Honorary Doctorate of Letters from the Universities of Sydney, and was recognised in 1997 by the National Trust of Australia as one of Australia’s Living Treasures.

As a speaker, John is unforgettable. His presentations are reflective of his personality and life experiences, leaving audiences with insights, readings, and leadership lessons.