Dance Awards Shine Light on Aussie Dance Stars

The Australian Dance Awards celebrated a night-of-nights in Perth on Saturday 1 September, shining a light on the nation’s dance stars.

“Congratulations go to all our 2012 Australian Dance Award winners,” enthused Ms Saunders, Director, Ausdance WA and host organisation for the event. “The Awards ceremony is presented in ten categories and this year’s winners are outstanding and exceptional.”

Nanette Hassall was presented with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for her extraordinary contribution to Australian dance that spans decades.

Bangarra Dance Theatre won Outstanding Performance by a Company for Belong, a performance described as “a powerful and theatrical portrayal of character, story and emotion.”

Daryl Brandwood was awarded Outstanding Performance by a Male Dancer for his extraordinary artistry, grace and athleticism in HELIX. Together with Barry Moreland, they were presented with the Award for Outstanding Achievement in Independent Dance, also for HELIX.

Natalie Weir, Artistic Director of Expressions Dance Company, was duly acknowledged for her contemporary and dynamic interpretation of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet through “innovative story-telling, complex partnering and seamless transitions.” Her award was for Outstanding Achievement in Choreography for R&J.

Elise May received the Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Dancer, for her performance in R&J, described as brave and memorable, and one that showcased her impressive physical strength.

The award for Services to Dance was presented to Lucinda Sharp for her outstanding work in “changing the culture of elite dance training” through her study of psychology.

Sarah Calver received the Services to Dance Education award for her commitment to fostering dance activity for over 30 years in the Northern Territory.

Outstanding Achievement in Youth or Community Dance was presented to Shaun Parker and Company for The Yard, a performance project described as both transforming and influential.

Bryan Mason and Sophie Hyde crafted the beautiful and moving film, Life in Movement that captured the essence of Tanja Liedtke and her work. They were fittingly presented with the award for Outstanding Achievement in Dance on Film.

Robina Beard OAM, chair of the Selection Panel said, “The performance line-up was exceptional and I am sure audiences were enthralled with the evenings showcase of dance, together with the announcement and celebration of the 2012 Australian Dance Award Winners.”

Congratulations to winners of the 2012 Australian Dance Awards

Lifetime Achievement Award
Nanette Hassall

Services to Dance
Lucinda Sharp

Services to Dance Education
Sarah Calver

Outstanding Achievement in Youth or Community Dance
Shaun Parker and Company for The Yard

Outstanding Achievement in Choreography
Natalie Weir for R&J, Expressions Dance Company

Outstanding Performance by a Company
Bangarra Dance Theatre for Belong

Outstanding Achievement in Independent Dance
Barry Moreland and Daryl Brandwood for HELIX

Outstanding Performance by a Female Dancer
Elise May for R&J, Expressions Dance Company

Outstanding Performance by a Male Dancer
Daryl Brandwood for HELIX

Outstanding Achievement in Dance on Film
Bryan Mason & Sophie Hyde for Life in Movement