Live Performance Australia (LPA) today announced the 19th annual Helpmann Awards, which will see the stars of the live performance industry come together for two remarkable nights in Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia, for the very first time.

The Helpmann Awards are the premier celebration of Australia’s vibrant live performance industry. These national awards recognise distinguished achievement and excellence in Australia’s live performance sectors including musicals, contemporary music, comedy, opera and classical music, theatre, ballet, dance and physical theatre, presentation for children and young people, regional touring and cabaret.

In a new destination partnership with Visit Victoria, 42 prestigious Helpmann Awards will be presented across two-star studded nights on 14 and 15 July 2019 at the Victorian home of the performing arts, Arts Centre Melbourne.

Victorian Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley said “Melbourne is the creative and cultural capital of the country and the perfect place for this celebration of Australia’s remarkable live performance industry. The theatre, live music and the performing arts attract visitors to our city year-round, creating jobs and making Melbourne more exciting and vibrant.”

LPA Chief Executive, Evelyn Richardson said, “For the first time in the rich history of the Awards we are thrilled to be presenting the national Helpmann Awards events in Melbourne. Similar to the Tony Awards in New York and the Olivier Awards in London, the Helpmann Awards highlight the artistry and excellence in Australia’s live performance industry. The Awards celebrate the many hands and hearts engaged in making the live performance industry - a dynamic and creative powerhouse that is enjoyed by 23 million people each year in Australia.”

Tickets on sale in early May via Arts Centre Melbourne and Ticketmaster.

The full program, including award category nominees, will be announced in June.

The Helpmann Awards are proudly supported by the Victorian Government, via its tourism, sports and major events agency, Visit Victoria.

Read the full media release here.

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