About Us

Hello!

Cluster Arts is a production and producing company based in Meanjin/Brisbane, working across Australia and around the globe to elevate bold live performance. We exist to make creative careers sustainable. At the heart of everything we do is a deep respect for artists - their time, talent, labour, and livelihood. Touring is real work, and we treat it that way.

We specialise in building long-term touring models and strategic pathways that go beyond the one-off gig. From financial planning to international market development, we back artists with the tools and support to build thriving creative businesses - not just great shows.

In 2025, we proudly celebrate 10 years of supporting artists. In that time, we’ve delivered over 300 tours, supported more than 400 artists, and worked in 15+ countries - from regional Australia to the world’s biggest arts festivals.

Cluster Arts is relationship-driven, values-led, and unafraid to go above and beyond. We walk alongside our artists, presenters, and partners — not just during the show run, but for the long haul.

  • Founder

    Deb Wilks, a seasoned Arts professional with over 20 years of experience in the Australian Circus scene, is a driving force in the Performing Arts sector. Her dedication has led her to collaborate with emerging and established artists, all while nurturing her passion for enhancing artists' business skills and the broader recognition of the Arts among non-artists.

    This passion serves as the foundation for Cluster Arts. Deb is known for her quick thinking and creative approach to problem-solving, understanding the crucial role of strong governance. Her career boasts impressive roles as CEO of Flipside Circus from 2009 to 2015 and CEO of the Aboriginal Centre for Performance Arts (ACPA) in 2015. Her qualifications include a Graduate Diploma in Management (Arts & Culture), and she is currently pursuing a Masters in Management (Arts & Culture).

    To Deb, the Circus and Performing Arts community is a global family, and she relishes the opportunity to connect with artists worldwide. She eagerly anticipates the innovative contributions of the next generation of emerging Artists.

  • Executive Producer

    Kate, a seasoned professional with 15+ years in Queensland Arts, is a powerhouse Producer. With an impressive portfolio collaborating with Casus Circus, Briefs Factory, Company 2 (now Chelsea McGuffin & Co), Hoopla Clique, and Woodford Folk Festival, showcasing her versatility across various companies and festivals.

    Kate's dedication to the sector is both fierce and passionate. As a 2020 Brisbane City Council Artistic Fellowship recipient, she brings valuable insights to arts funding panels and international circus platforms.

    A festival maestro, Kate navigates the international circus market, identifying funding opportunities and balancing tight budgets. She's committed to Aussie circus growth, implementing strategies for audience development and elevating the art form globally.

    Kate's mission? Putting Brisbane on the global circus map, spreading the joy of Australian circus worldwide.

  • Producer

    Emma Serjeant is a creative producer with 18 years of experience in the Australian and International circus sector, specialising in new-circus. Starting her career as a circus artist, Emma is a founding member of Australia’s Casus Circus (Knee Deep), and her journey began with the pioneering CIRCA after graduating from the National Institute of Circus Arts in 2006.

    A decade later, Emma launched her own independent production house, showcasing contemporary circus works on stages around the world. Now fully dedicated to her producer role, she works closely with artists to nurture their creative growth, while championing sustainability and environmental awareness in the arts.

    After several years living in Germany and immersing herself in the European circus scene, Emma is thrilled to bring her experience and passion to the Cluster Arts team. She is deeply committed to the power of circus and physical theatre to inspire and connect audiences, and her expertise lies in international touring and fostering global artistic collaborations.

Integrity

We honour our commitments, champion fair pay, and treat creative careers with the professionalism they deserve. Touring is real work - and we show up for our artists, always.

Collaboration

We believe strong relationships build strong results. We invest in long-term partnerships with artists, presenters, funders, and communities - working together, not just side by side.

Creativity

We back original, relevant, and courageous work - the kind that moves audiences and sparks change. We create the conditions for brave ideas to thrive and reach their full potential.

Access & Equity

We are committed to inclusion at every level - from the artists we support to the stages we reach. We value diverse voices, perspectives, and stories both onstage and behind the scenes.

Sustainability

We help artists build lasting careers with smart business models and strategic planning. Our approach considers financial viability, emotional wellbeing, and environmental responsibility - because real sustainability means artists can keep doing what they do best.

What drives us