NT Performing Arts Awards

The 2023 Northern Territory (NT) Performing Arts Awards recognised outstanding achievement on stage and behind the scenes, as well as those who educate and inspire.

The awards are presented by the NT Government to recognise excellence, spirit, community impact and legacy in the Northern Territory's performing arts sector.

The peer-judged awards celebrate the people who make a creative difference to the NT community by honouring talented and inspiring artists and arts-workers who have made an impact in dance, music, theatre, musical theatre, opera, circus, physical theatre and comedy.

The recipients of the 2023 NT Performing Arts Awards are:

Outstanding Performer Award

To recognise a performing artist who has made a significant impact on stage.

Tara Murphy

Tara Murphy received the award for performing Samuel Barber’s brilliant and virtuosic Violin Concerto with Darwin Symphony Orchestra in the performance 'Dances of Fire' at the Darwin Entertainment.

Young Achiever Award

To recognise a young artist who has made a significant impact on stage.

Spillett

Spillett received the award for their charisma and boundless energy. With a beaming smile, they've become a mesmerizing presence on stage, crafting hypnotic performances.

Outstanding Creative Award

To recognise the creative talent, including choreographers, designers, directors, producers and writers, behind outstanding performances.

James Mangohig (Kuya James)

“Kuya” James received the award for his work on Hymns for the Witching Hour, following on from his two-decade career as artist and music producer.

Behind the Scenes Award

To recognise excellent work behind the scenes by technicians, stage managers and project co-ordinators and others.

Tomm Lydiard

Tomm Lydiard received the award to recognise him as an innovative young Lighting Designer and Programmer at the Darwin Entertainment Centre who collaboratively crafts inventive lighting for leading Australian entertainers like Guy Sebastian and Jessica Mauboy.

Legend Award

To recognise an arts practitioner who has made a significant, long-term contribution to the NT performing arts sector.

Dr Shellie Morris AO

Dr. Shellie Morris AO is a proud Yanyuwa and Wardaman woman and received the award as a celebrated Australian vocalist who's harnessed music's healing power for 25 years.

Sean Pardy

Sean Pardy received the award for his work in the Northern Territory's theatre realm and as a transformative force for artists, new works, and creative evolution.

Inspiration Award

To recognise an inspirational performing arts educator.

Nikki Jeffries

Nikki Jeffries received the award for her inspiration by kindling passion for circus in countless youths, educators, and communities.

Best Performance Award

To celebrate an outstanding NT production recognised by its originality, quality of work on stage and behind the scenes, and its audience reception.

Hymns for the Witching Hour by Kuya James

"HYMNS FOR THE WITCHING HOUR," was a dynamic and engaging collaborative dance theatre work co-directed by Kuya James and Kino McHugh, presented by Brown’s Mart.

Impact Award

This award recognises work by an individual or organisation that resulted in a significant contribution to the performing arts or influence on the community.

Zoe Scrogings

Zoe Scrogings received the award for her impact on the Corrugated Iron Youth Arts team.

People’s Choice Award

The People’s Choice Award gives the public the opportunity to vote for an outstanding performing artist or creative to be celebrated at the 2023 NT Performing Arts Awards.