Foundation Head of the Theatre Studies Department at UNE and important figure in the university’s community, Christopher Ross-Smith, passed away on the 3rd of August, 2021.

Christopher will be remembered fondly for years to come for the positive influence he played at the University of New England and the effect he had on its students and community. Chris taught actors and directors over many decades on four continents and was well-respected by students for his teaching, knowledge and stewardship of theatre.

Chris was appointed the first Deputy Director at NIDA in 1974 when the students there included Judy Davis, Steve Bisley and Mel Gibson. He had been invited to come to UNE to re-establish a Theatre Studies Department in 1977, and continued until 1996. Christopher succeeded to the extent that it became a benchmark for such departments throughout Australia.

Christopher is well-known amongst the acting fraternity in Armidale as an actor in Equus, End Game and King Lear, and for being a hands-on supporter of the Arts. Chris helped establish a Cultural Centre in Armidale, and was its first coordinator. He also founded the Armidillos Theatre Company in 1985, and was part of a group that ran the Armidale Biennial Arts Festival for 10 years 1978 – 1988.

Christopher wrote a chapter on theatre in New England, with his wife, Judith Ross-Smith (attributed in the book as Judith Lamb), for the book High Lean Country.

In 2009 his service to the performing arts, and the community of the Armidale region was acknowledged when he received an OAM.

These are just some of his achievements. Chris truly made many contributions to the university and to Armidale, and for this we thank and remember him.

Chris is survived by Judith and his two daughters with his former wife Astrid Blake, Imogen and Sci.

For those looking for more information on Christopher’s service, you can find more here.