Theatre’s night of nights, The Helpmann awards celebrated and recognize the stars and productions that made us laugh, cry and rejoice all year long.
Act II recognized the best male and female leads, best score, best shows across categories, and the cabaret, classical and the contemporary music categories.
Held in Melbourne for the very first time at the iconic Arts Centre and hosted by the fabulous dynamic duo of comedian, writer and actor, Susie Youssef, and Artistic Director of State Theatre SA, Mitchell Butel – the night was truly an industry celebration.
The evening began with a star-studded red carpet hosted by comedienne Cal Wilson. Guests included Greta Bradman, Rhonda Burchmore OAM, Uncle Jack Charles, Joel Creasey, Lucy Durack, James Egglestone, Nancye Hayes AM, Stephanie Lake, Chong Lim, Paul Kelly AO, Rachael Maza, David McAllister AM, Kate Miller-Heidke, Jacob Nash, Keir Nuttall, Beau Dean Riley Smith, and Vanessa Scammell.
Richard Evans, President of LPA, said “We are proud to present the 19h Annual Helpmann Awards in Melbourne this year for the very first time. The breadth and diversity of Winners, Nominees, and performances at tonight’s and yesterday’s events shine a spotlight on Australia’s world-class creative and artistic talent. Congratulations to all 2019 Helpmann Award Nominees and Winners!”
In a world first, the cast of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child performed an exclusive montage at the play’s Australian home, Melbourne’s Princess Theatre, which was beamed live to the thrilled 2019 Helpmann Awards audience at Arts Centre Melbourne’s State Theatre.
As well as the special live cross to Melbourne’s Princess Theatre, acclaimed performances at the State Theatre included Victorian Opera with their new work Lorelei, featuring divas Ali McGregor, Dimity Shepherd and Danielle Calder; The Australian Ballet with an exquisite new piece from Aurum by choreographer Alice Topp; the breathtaking Bangarra dancers Beau Dean Riley Smith, Rikki Mason, Tyrel
Dulvarie, Ryan Pearson, Baden Hitchcock and Bradley Smith in an excerpt from the Helpmann Award winning production Bennelong; a special tribute to Kev Carmody from electronic soul pop duo Electric Fields; musical theatre darling Silvie Paladino; and bringing the show home was the sensational Brent Hill and the extraordinary kids from the hit musical School of Rock.
Once again, the Helpmann Awards Orchestra was led by exceptional musical director Vanessa Scammell.
For a list of all the winners head to:
