Name Frank Ford | ||
Frank John Ford AM is a freelance writer, director, dramaturg and drama lecturer.
He has studied acting, drama theory, dramaturgy, directing and cinema in his degrees: M.F.A. (Theatre Arts) from Columbia University, New York (Awarded the Richard Rodgers Scholarship); Certificate in Arts Administration, Harvard Business School; A.D.B (Associate of the Drama Board) London and B.A. University of Sydney.
He is an author and director of opera, music theatre, cabaret, experimental theatre, modern and classic drama and multi-media productions. His plays, adaptations and cabarets have been performed in Australia and overseas. He was former Head of the Department of Drama at Adelaide University and has held various teaching, directing and arts administration positions here and overseas.
He was Founding Chair of Adelaide Fringe Festival in 1975, and its first Honorary Life Member. He initiated the Adelaide Cabaret Festival and is Chair of the Advisory Committee. He has served on many arts boards such as Country Arts SA, Adelaide Festival and as Chair of the Australian Dance Theatre and is currently Chair of the Independent Arts Foundation.
In 1999, he was awarded Member of the Order of Australia for service to the development of the performing arts in South Australia as a director, playwright, administrator and educator. In 2001 he received the Centenary Medal for services to the community, particularly through the performing arts. In 2006 he received the inaugural Premier’s "Life Time Achievement" Ruby Award for the Arts. He is an Australia Day, South Australian Senior of the Year Finalist 2015 and City of Adelaide, Citizen of the Year 2015.