The 2025 Ensemble Theatre Sandra Bates Director’s Award (SBDA) has been awarded to Anna Houston and Tiffany Wong, who will work on two plays throughout 2025.
“As part of the SBDA, I am thrilled we have another opportunity to welcome two very talented emerging directors to the Ensemble Theatre,” said Ensemble Theatre Artistic Director Mark Kilmurry. “This award aims to explore and nurture artistic talent enabling and developing a close relationship with the Ensemble family and the wider theatre landscape.
“I am delighted Tiffany & Anna will be joining us in 2025. We are incredibly grateful to Jinnie & Ross Gavin for their very generous and continuing support of SBDA as we chose two directors who are set to make a mark on the industry,” said Kilmurry.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the list of incredible artists that have been welcomed into the Ensemble Theatre family. The Sandra Bates Award is an invaluable career and development opportunity, and I can’t wait to jump on board and assist two brilliant directors across the 2025 season. I’m so grateful to have been awarded this incredible opportunity for growth and learning,” said Anna Houston.
“Receiving the Sandra Bates Directors Award feels particularly meaningful as someone who grew up on Cammeraygal land,” said Tiffany Wong. “The Ensemble has been a constant presence in my life – I’ve passed by the theatre countless times over the years.”
“Their productions have consistently shown me new ways of looking at theatre, from fresh takes on classics to introducing me to works I’d never encountered before. Every assistant directing role brings different insights and challenges, which is what makes this craft so exciting.”
“I’m thrilled about the possibilities ahead and the chance to work with new directors in a space that’s been part of my local landscape for so long. There’s something special about getting this opportunity in the area where I grew up and still call home,” said Wong.
Mark Kilmurry initiated the Sandra Bates Director’s Award in 2016 and since then, recipients of the award have been mentored on 25 productions, with several progressing to direct for Ensemble’s 2025 season, including Priscilla Jackman, Margaret Thanos, Ursula Yovich, Shaun Rennie and Janine Watson.
Awarded each year, recipients of the SBDA 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. This annual award commemorates the legacy of former Artistic Director Sandra Bates, after 30 years at the helm of Ensemble Theatre.
For more information about the Ensemble Theatre Sandra Bates Director’s Award, visit: www.ensemble.com.au for details.
Image: Anna Houston – photo by Marnya Rothe | Tiffany Wong (supplied)