‘Errols’ field narrowed
THE state’s best onstage and behind-the-scenes talents will try to take home an “Errol” next month, after the nominations for the fourth annual Tasmanian Theatre Awards were announced last night.
Run by the Theatre Council of Tasmania, the Tasmanian Theatre Awards — affectionately known as “The Errols” in homage to Tassie-born Hollywood actor Errol Flynn — celebrate the state’s vibrant theatre industry and recognise excellence in performing arts.
Launceston’s Encore Theatre Company leads the list of nominees this year, with its popular production of Wizard of Oz spin-off Wicked receiving a record 11 nominations in the Community Musical Theatre category.
The prestigious Professional Theatre category is led by the Tasmanian Theatre Company, which is in the running for nine awards for its controversial show An Inconvenient Woman — a new Tasmanian play based on the true story of convicted murderer Susan Neill-Fraser’s trial.
The Old Nick Theatre Company also received nine nominations in the Community Theatre category for the comedy One Man, Two Guvnors, which starred John Xintavelonis. Other well-known names in the running for an Errol include former Home and Away actor Lisa Gormley, Rosehaven star Katie Robertson, dance legend Graeme Murphy, and musical theatre export Colin Dean.
A total of 33 productions have received nominations across the Professional Theatre, Community Theatre, Community Musical Theatre and Physical Theatre categories this year, representing the work of 25 Tasmanian theatre and dance companies. Special Judges’ Awards will also be presented in each category, and a Lifetime Achievement Award will acknowledge the exceptional contribution of one individual.
“It’s been another fantastic year for the awards, with more companies registering than ever before, including three new ones,” Theatre Council Tasmania president Peter Sexton said.
“This really highlights the strength of the Tasmanian theatre sector, and the importance the community places on coming together to celebrate its achievements.”
Winners will be announced at an event at Wrest Point on March 3, hosted by ABC newsreader (and occasional thespian) Peter Gee. Tickets at www.tastheatreawards.com.