Todd McKenney to host 2015 Helpmann Awards

Todd McKenney_Jim Lee PhotoThe 2015 Helpmann Awards is set to sizzle with the star-studded announcement of this year’s ceremony host and performances. Live Performance Australia (LPA) has announced previous Helpmann Awards winner and Australian favourite, Todd McKenney, as the host of the 2015 Helpmann Awards.

“The Helpmann Awards celebrate Australia’s finest live performances and performers, and who better to host our annual event than one of Australia’s most well-loved, dynamic and versatile live performers, Todd McKenney,” said LPA Chief Executive, Evelyn Richardson. “McKenney’s charisma and aptitude in the many disciplines of performance make him an audience favourite and we are thrilled to have him as our host this year.”

“It is an honour to host the 2015 Helpmann Awards and celebrate the immense talent within our live performance industry,” says Todd McKenney. “I am excited to be able to share this night on stage with my peers acknowledging what an amazing industry we have here in Australia.”

Opening the 2015 Helpmann Awards is the full cast of Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed new production of Les Misérables – undisputedly one of the most popular musicals of all time. The entertainment packed evening will also feature performances from: the cast of the Tony Award winning musical, Once – for a one-off performance exclusively for the 2015 Helpmann Awards; the Australia Piano Quartet; and previous Helpmann Awards nominee, Cosentino – The Grand Illusionist.

“I am thrilled that we have been able to gather together such a stellar group of artists to help celebrate excellence in live performance,” says Helpmann Awards Executive Producer, Jon Nicholls.

A total of 42 awards will be presented at the 2015 Helpmann Awards, in addition to lifetime achievement awards, JC Williamson Award and Sue Nattrass Award. The full program for the 15th annual Helpmann Awards, including award category nominees, will be announced on 22 June.

The 2015 Helpmann Awards will be held at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre on Monday 27 July on the set of Cameron Mackintosh’s Les Misérables and broadcast live on Foxtel Art. For more information, visit: www.helpmannawards.com.au for details.

Image: Todd McKenney – photo by Jim Lee