Creative organisations among NT Performing Arts Awards winners

Creative organisations along with breathtaking performances and talented performing artists were among the winners of the 2024 Northern Territory Performing Arts Awards, which were announced on Tuesday, 19th November 2024 in Alice Springs.

The award recipients across the nine categories were selected by a panel of industry judges for their outstanding achievements on the stage and behind-the-scenes in dance, music, theatre, musical theatre, opera, circus, physical theatre and comedy.

The People’s Choice Award winner went to ‘POD’, an interactive, highly immersive journey through the Larrakia seasons by Luminous Productions.

‘The Other Side of Me’ by the NT Dance Company won the Production of the Year Award. NT Dance Company  is the creative vision of senior First Nations choreographer and Artistic Director, Gary Lang, with NT Dance Company reflecting the diversity of people and art in Larrakia, telling First Nations stories that integrate dancers of all nationalities.

Tim Newth took home the Ultimate Legend Award for his profound impact on the Northern Territory’s performing arts scene.

A force in the realm of dance, Kelly Beneforti, was awarded Performer of the Year for her performance in ‘Cloud Split’, presented by Tracks Dance last year.

Two emerging artists - dancers Georgia Cruickshank and Grace Hendry – received the Young Achiever Award for their performances with the SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre, in addition to mentoring other aspiring dancers.

Larrakeyah Primary School’s Arts Specialist Teacher, Angeline Vrettis took out the Inspiring Educator Award, acknowledged for her dedication in teaching visual arts, drama, music and dance with a pivotal role in producing whole school productions.

Ben Graetz received the Behind the Scenes Creative Award in recognition of being a dynamic force in the performing arts sector for over 26 years, excelling as a performer, director, producer, writer and MC, while Duane Preston was awarded the Behind the Scenes Production Award for his creativity and expertise in audio and visual technology which contributed to standout performances such as ‘Milpirri Sensorium’ and ‘Cloud Split’.

Youth arts organisation Corrugated Iron Youth Arts took out the Impact Award in recognition of growing Territory talent over 40 years with many alumni having entered arts careers in the Northern Territory and nationally.

More than 120 nominations were received from the Territory arts community seeking to recognise the makers and shakers of the performing arts industry, with 29 shortlisted as finalists.

For more information on this year’s winners

Image top. ‘The Other Side of Me’ by the NT Dance Company won the Production of the Year Award; Image below: Youth arts organisation Corrugated Iron Youth Arts took out the Impact Award