Ensemble Theatre announces 2020 Sandra Bates Director’s Award Recipients

Ensemble Theatre Rachel Chant and Warwick DoddrellEnsemble Theatre has announced that the 2020 Sandra Bates Director’s Award (SBDA) has been awarded to Rachel Chant and Warwick Doddrell from 27 high quality applications received.

Mark Kilmurry initiated the Award as a legacy to former Artistic Director Sandra Bates after she retired from her 30 years at the helm of Ensemble Theatre. Each year the two winners are offered a paid position of Assistant Director on two of Ensemble Theatre’s main stage productions and assist in the ongoing creative development of new works.

“The Award nurtures emerging theatre directors by giving them the opportunity to work as Assistant Director on two Ensemble Theatre productions each year,: said Mr Kilmurry. “As usual the applications we received were of a very high calibre and after an extensive interview process we chose Rachel and Warwick.”

“Rachel will be Assistant Director on The Woman in Black and Unqualified 2: Still Unqualified and Warwick will be working on Kenny and The Caretaker. Rachel and Warwick join a list of very high performing past applicants who are making great strides in the industry.”

“We are thrilled with the continuation of this award and of the talented directors we meet every year,” added Mr Kilmurry. “Previous winners of the Sandra Bates Director’s Award have produced their own successful work or have had the opportunity to direct plays.”

The SBDA is now in its fifth year and is kindly supported by Jinnie and Ross Gavin, and the estate of Dimitry and Zika Nester. Previous winners have included Erin Taylor and Adam Deusien (2019); Liz Arday and Felicity Nicol (2018); Shaun Rennie and Francesca Savige (2017); and Priscilla Jackman and Janine Watson (2016).

For more information, visit: www.ensemble.com.au for details.

Image: Rachel Chant and Warwick Doddrell (supplied)