Windmill Theatre Wins SIDNEY MYER GROUP AWARD

Referring to it as a National Treasure and ground breaking children's theatre company, the Trustees of the Sidney Myer Fund have announced Windmill Theatre the winner of the group category for the prestigious Sidney Myer Performing Arts Awards.

In accepting the award, Windmill's General Manager/Executive Producer, Teena Munn said, "Windmill Theatre has gone from strength to strength since its inception 10 years ago but to win this prestigious award is an incredibly exciting highlight. We are thrilled to accept it as valued recognition of what our company and its incredible artists have achieved in the creation of Contemporary Theatre experiences for young people and their families."

Artistic Director, RoseMary Myers added, "The funds associated will allow us to develop some new projects we've had in the wings. In particular, one important aspect of our company vision is to keep exploring ways of inhabiting new media spaces to reach a broader audience base with the work we create.

"It's the fusion of contemporary culture, live theatre and the inspiration from our sophisticated young audiences that drives our company's future, and we sincerely thank the foundation for providing us with the means to grow this exciting aspect of our work," Myers said.

Actor, comedian, composer Eddie Perfect has taken out the Individual Award, and Darwin based record company Skinnyfish Music has won the Facilitator's Prize for its dedication to promoting the music of Indigenous Australians. 

The Sidney Myer Performing Arts Awards pay tribute to outstanding achievement in the performing arts across Australia.

The Sidney Myer Performing Arts Awards were created in 1984 by the Trustees of the Sidney Myer Fund to commemorate the life and work of Sidney Myer - and to enhance the status of the performing arts in Australia.

"Sidney Myer is best known for founding the Myer department stores but one of his greatest legacies was his support for the arts in Australia," said Carrillo Gantner, Chairman of the Trustees for the Sidney Myer Fund.

"Sidney Myer believed that the arts could not be separated from life and that it was the duty of every society to support its artists. The Sidney Myer Performing Arts Awards reflect this belief, paying tribute to outstanding excellence in drama, comedy, dance, music, opera, circus and puppetry."

The Awards are made on a national basis and all nominations made are considered by the Judging Committee. The performing arts are defined to include all aspects of creation and performance of all forms.

The Awards not only celebrate past achievements for either a single outstanding performance or a sustained contribution, consideration is also given to the potential of an individual or group to continue in their contribution to Australian society through the performing arts.

The 2011 Sidney Myer Performing Arts Awards were held on Monday 20 February 2012, at the State Theatre Centre of Western Australia, Perth, from 5.30 – 7pm.