Summary: John 'Robbo' Robertson is a true gentleman of the theatre. A showman of great charm and ability, he has been at the forefront of commercial theatre since 1956, when he dropped a career in accountancy to enter the business of Show! Just like the character of Leo Bloom in Mel Brook's THE PRODUCERS, the Accountant turned Producer - but 'Robbo's career trajectory saw him commence first as a Stage Manager on The Tivoli Circuit, building his career in a number of roles and working with key production houses including Rudas Productions, J.C. Williamsons, and Kenn Brodziak. It was at The Adelaide Festival Trust where he truly evolved as one of the country's most successful Impresarios - steering them with extraordinary hits such as EVITA, BARNUM, OKLAHOMA and SONG & DANCE - musicals that captured the audience's imaginations and made theatre-going, an event again. As a Director and Executive Producer with Cameron Mackintosh's Australian Company, he oversaw the arrival of the English juggernauts CATS, LES MISERABLES, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA and MISS SAIGON. Musicals which changed the way in which the product was assembled, produced, marketed and presented. Known to everyone as 'Robbo', John has garnered a reputation as a much loved and respected Producer. He continues to be called upon for his sage advice as a consultant and mentor. After all, he's been there; done that ... many times over. In 2003, Live Performance Australia presented John Robertson with its James Cassius Award in recognition of his contribution to excellence in the Performing Arts. The Australian Performing Arts would certainly be the poorer without the instinct, drive and passion of 'Robbo'. I had the best time in conversation with John. Enjoy!
