Celebrating outstanding actors, composers, designers, directors from across the Sunshine State, Queensland’s premier theatre awards, the 36th annual Matilda Awards, have announced this year’s nominees.
With 62 creatives and 35 shows nominated across the board, it’s evident how immense the talent in Queensland is and the awards act as an important reminder to reflect on the achievements of the industry over the last year.
Three shows have a whopping five nominations each. These include Breathe In from Mackay’s Crossroad Arts, Is That You, Ruthie? from QPAC in association with Oombarra Productions and Vietgone from Queensland Theatre.
Followed closely by Drizzle Boy from Queensland Theatre and BANANALAND from Brisbane Festival and QPAC, both of which have four nominations.
The Matilda Awards are also shining a spotlight on the significance of arts organisations in the creation of new work. Brisbane Festival is named in 18 nominations across seven shows and QPAC in 16 nominations across four shows, while Metro Arts again shows its strength in the support of independent and emerging artists with 6 nominations across four shows.
Lead Judge of the Matilda Awards, Sue Rider, is thrilled to share the nominees the panel has had the pleasure of reviewing. “In 2023 the judging panel saw a wealth of theatre embracing stories and artists from diverse points of view and it is great to see such work making its mark in the nominations,” said Ms Rider.
“The Poison of Polygamy from La Boite Theatre, Unconditional from Playlab Theatre/Brisbane Festival/Brisbane Powerhouse and Tae Tae in the Land of Yaaas! from Brisbane Festival/shake & stir theatre co/QPAC all explored perspectives which break new ground.”
“We are also excited to have seen more regional work than ever before. Of 100 shows reviewed by the panel, 19 were from outside Brisbane. We are proud that The Matilda Awards are working to champion the excellence of Queensland’s theatre industry across the board,” says Ms Rider.
Chair of the Matilda Awards, Jan Irvine, also expressed her delight that the annual Matilda Awards provide an important platform to showcase this State’s emerging and established artists.
“I am delighted to see the great diversity of work and artistry within this year’s nominees, and I acknowledge the challenging task of our judges to arrive at a such a wonderful list of nominees,” said Ms Irvine.
The Matilda Awards were founded in 1987 by theatre critics Alison Cotes and Sue Gough, to celebrate and promote the excellence of Queensland’s theatre industry.
The Matilda Awards will be presented at the Brisbane Powerhouse on Monday 26 February 2024. For more information and full list of nominees, visit: www.matildaawards.com.au for details.
Image: BANANALAND (supplied)