Restless Dance Theatre Claims Green Room Award for Outstanding Ensemble

Restless Dance Theatre has been named winner of the Green Room Award for Outstanding Ensemble for its powerful production Seeing Through Darkness, which premiered in 2024 as part of DanceX, curated by The Australian Ballet.

The Green Room Awards, Melbourne’s premier peer-presented honours for the performing arts, celebrate excellence across theatre, dance, music and opera. The win marks the first time the company has received a nomination in the prestigious awards’ history.

Restless Dance Theatre extends its heartfelt thanks to the Green Room Awards panel and to The Australian Ballet for their belief in Seeing Through Darkness.

CEO Julie Moralee accepted the award on behalf of the company, acknowledging the remarkable creative team behind Seeing Through Darkness: Artistic Director Michelle Ryan, Associate Artist Larissa McGowan, and the late, great Roz Hervey, whose legacy continues to shape and inspire Restless Dance Theatre’s work.

At the heart of this achievement are the Restless dancers. Their artistry, vulnerability and strength brought Seeing Through Darkness to life.

There are so many people, on stage and behind the scenes, who made this work possible. This award is a reflection of a collective vision, dedication, and belief in the power of inclusive dance.

“We are incredibly proud, deeply grateful, and excited for what’s ahead,” the company said.

The ensemble that performed Seeing Through Darkness during the DanceX season comprised Marcus Louend, Poppy Anthoney, Jianna Georgiou, Sidney Debba, Michael Hodyl and Charlie Wilkins.

The Green Room Awards continue to spotlight outstanding achievement in Australia’s vibrant performing arts scene, with Restless Dance Theatre’s historic win underscoring the growing recognition of inclusive and innovative dance practice.

Image courtesy Green Room Awards