Monica Scagliarini is a performing arts professional specialising in facilitating artistic projects and audience engagement, working across programming, operations, and audience experience to ensure that creative ideas are effectively realised and meaningfully experienced.

As Head of NIDA Theatres, Monica leads the activation of NIDA’s performance venues, supporting a diverse annual program of over 340 events across the performing arts, education, and events sectors. She manages the Events and FOH, servicing internal productions and overseeing the external performances and works closely with all NIDA departments, to ensure delivery aligns with organisational priorities and audience needs.

Previously, Monica was General Manager of the Italian Forum Cultural Centre in Sydney, where she secured a $3.6M Commonwealth grant, led the completion of the venue, and established its operations and multi-arts program, contributing to its positioning as a vibrant hub for cultural and community engagement.

She holds a Bachelor of Political and Social Sciences from the University of Bologna and a Master of International Marketing.

She is currently completing a Master of Fine Arts in Cultural Leadership, focusing on the civic and social outcomes of participatory live performance. Her research explores how civic theatre fosters social identity, agency, and participation, contributing to a stronger sense of belonging and public value.