2026 Festival

Speaker Profile

Michael Shmith

Michael Shmith is a former Age arts editor and opera critic and a former communications director of the Australian Ballet. Michael is also an author, editor and writer.

The Silk Road And Its Impact On 21st Century China

Friday April 24
Sorrento Bowls Club
9.00am / 60 mins

Michael Pembroke with Michael Shmith

From ancient trade routes to modern geopolitics, this session explores how the legacy of the Silk Road continues to shape China’s global ambitions and influence in the 21st century with Michael Pembroke.

Drinks With The Reviewers

Saturday April 25
The Ballroom, The Continental
5.30pm / 60 mins

Madeleine Gray, Sarah Krasnostein, Michael Shmith and Georgie Williamson with Jason Steger

In Conversation: Greg Sheridan

Sunday April 26
Ellen Grant Hall
9.00am / 60 mins

Greg Sheridan with Michael Shmith