In this inspiring episode of The Huddle Leadership Podcast, host Kate Russell sits down with Brian Gilbertson, creative director, singer, mentor, and leader of one of South Australia’s most beloved traditions, the National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant. Together, they explore the deep connection between leadership, creativity, and community, revealing how the arts, particularly singing, can unlock confidence, trust, and resilience in individuals and groups alike.

Brian shares moving stories from his decades-long career in opera, arts leadership, and festival management, weaving together lessons on mentorship, crisis management, and the delicate balance between creativity and business. From guiding thousands of volunteers through the logistical feat of the Pageant during COVID to mentoring young singers into careers they never thought possible, Brian’s philosophy is rooted in trust, curiosity, and empowering others to succeed.

The conversation celebrates the arts as a powerful force for wellbeing, community building, and self-expression, while offering practical insights into leading with both vision and compassion.

Key Takeaways

• Singing as self-discovery - Our voice is tied to confidence and identity; finding it again can be transformative.
• Leadership is trust - Creating a safe space for risk-taking empowers people to contribute their best ideas.
• Crisis calls for adaptability - Leading during uncertainty requires creativity, planning, and decisive action.
• Creativity is everywhere - From finance to festivals, innovative thinking enhances every field.
• Community and well-being are linked - Arts and festivals foster connection, joy, and resilience.
• Know your ‘why’ - Purpose drives meaningful work and unites teams behind a shared vision.
• Festivals as gateways - Events provide platforms for emerging artists and bring world-class talent to local audiences.
• Curiosity fuels growth - Openness to learning and asking “obvious” questions benefits everyone in the room.

Featured Discussion

Brian’s leadership journey is as varied as it is inspiring, from performing opera on international stages to steering South Australia’s largest annual event. He reflects on guiding the Pageant team through the COVID-19 crisis by developing multiple scenarios, including the bold move to relocate the event to Adelaide Oval.

His approach to leadership is deeply human: listen first, understand the “why,” and create environments where people feel safe to contribute and experiment. As a vocal mentor, he sees himself not as a teacher, but as a guide helping individuals uncover their own voice, whether that’s an aspiring opera singer, a child with a stutter, or a performer regaining confidence after injury.

Brian also champions the role of festivals in building both economic and social capital. From the Adelaide Fringe to community arts projects, he highlights how events spark creativity, boost wellbeing, and give people something to look forward to—whether that’s an annual parade, a local gallery opening, or a rock concert in the park.

Quotable Moments

• “Singing is about opening you up.”
• “Curiosity is a really important word.”
• “Creativity happens 24 hours a day.”
• “Nothing is right, nothing is wrong—you just have to deal with the consequences of choice.”
• “Calm and courage—that’s what it requires.”

Connect with Brian

• Brian's Website
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

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