Live Performance Australia announced the nominations in each of the 41 categories for the 2008 Helpmann Awards. The announcement was made simultaneously at The Capitol Theatre, Sydney, and at Her Majesty’s Theatre, Melbourne.
The awards, named in honour of late Australian dancer, actor, director and choreographer Sir Robert Helpmann, are Australia’s answer to London’s Olivier Awards and New York’s Tonys.
“The Helpmann Awards are the pinnacle industry event for Australia’s live performance industry, recognising the very best in live performances that annually attract over 13.7 million people to shows across the nation with revenues of over $834 million, and growing,” said Live Performance Australia chief executive Evelyn Richardson.
The awards will be announced on July 28 at Sydney’s Star City Casino, hosted by Jonathan Biggins and Julia Zemiro.
Elton John’s Billy Elliot dominated the musical theatre categories, with 11 nominations including best musical and best direction.
Other nominees include Sydney Festival hit Black Watch, from the National Theatre of Scotland (best play and best direction), and Company B productions of Toy Symphony and Who’s Afraid Of Virginia Woolf.