The stars of Sydney’s vibrant theatre community gathered tonight at the York Theatre, Seymour Centre, to celebrate the 2024 Sydney Theatre Awards. The glittering ceremony, hosted by the effervescent Marney McQueen, saw 28 awards presented to an array of productions that graced Sydney’s stages throughout the year. With nearly 500 members of the theatre community in attendance, it was an evening dedicated to honouring artistic brilliance, collaboration, and creativity.
Big wins for August: Osage County and The Inheritance
Taking home the coveted Best Mainstage Production was Belvoir’s August: Osage County, a searing family drama that captivated audiences. Directed by Eamon Flack, who also won Best Direction of a Mainstage Production, the production scooped up multiple awards. Tamsin Carroll and Pamela Rabe shared the spotlight with a tied win for Best Performance in a Leading Role in a Mainstage Production, making it a standout moment in the evening’s proceedings.
Meanwhile, Best Independent Production went to The Inheritance, a powerful theatrical collaboration between Shane Anthony, Daniel Cottier Productions, Sugary Rum Productions, and the Seymour Centre. Director Shane Anthony was recognised with Best Direction of an Independent Production, while the show’s stellar ensemble cast picked up Best Ensemble Cast. Taking home the title of Best Performance in a Leading Role in an Independent Production was André de Vanny for his unforgettable turn in The Lonesome West.
Musical theatre shines
Musical theatre also had its moment under the spotlight, with Zombie! The Musical, presented by Hayes Theatre Co., nabbing Best Musical. Its director, Darren Yap, was applauded with the Best Direction of a Musical award.
The Judith Johnson Award for Best Performance in a Leading Role in a Musical went to Michael Paynter for his riveting performance in Jesus Christ Superstar. Emerging talent was celebrated as Daniel R. Nixon (The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time) was named Best Newcomer, while Best New Australian Work was awarded to Emmanuelle Mattana for Trophy Boys, cementing her as one to watch in the theatrical world.
A lifetime of legacy
The night’s most emotionally charged moment came with the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to the legendary Jim Sharman. With more than 70 productions to his name, Sharman’s career spans decades of revolutionising theatre, from directing the original production of The Rocky Horror Show to iconic turns with Hair and Jesus Christ Superstar. His contributions, both in Australia and internationally, have left an indelible mark on the world of theatre and opera.
The ceremony honoured Sharman’s achievements with an incredible medley of performances by original cast members. Highlights included Marcia Hines (Jesus Christ Superstar), John Waters (Hair), and The Rocky Horror Show performers Nell Campbell, Maureen Elkner, Sal Sharah, and Kate Fitzpatrick. It was a heartfelt tribute to a man who helped shape Australia’s theatre landscape.
A night to remember
The Awards evening was not just about victories but also about celebrating the spirit of theatre. The event opened with a moving performance of Seasons of Love, featuring past cast members of numerous Sydney productions of Rent. Another highlight included Ryan Gonzalez, who electrified the audience with Ride On from the new Australian musical Phar Lap.
Presenters included a galaxy of theatre legends, including Neil Armfield, Leah Howard, Remi Hii, Mary Rachel Brown, and Brian Thomson, adding a touch of glamour and gravitas to the occasion.
A celebration of theatre’s strength and diversity
The 2024 Sydney Theatre Awards again shone a light on the creativity and craft of Sydney’s incredible theatre community. Organised to celebrate the strength, quality, and diversity of productions, the night also highlighted the enduring value of live performance in connecting people.
The event was made possible thanks to the support of the Seaborn, Broughton & Walford Foundation as the major sponsor, alongside contributions from other notable supporters, including the William Fletcher Foundation, Showcast, Currency Press, and more.
From the inspiring work of seasoned performers to the fresh energy of new talent, the night underscored why Sydney remains a hub of theatrical innovation. And with the city’s thriving stages reflecting such bold creativity, the future of Sydney theatre looks brighter than ever.