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From the appointment of Wiradjuri and Bunurong man Uncle Jack Charles as patron, to a line-up of up-and-coming artists at the awards night, co-presidents Teh and Sepideh Kian aimed to shift the tone of the evening. The proceedings were live streamed for increased accessibility, formerly gendered categories have been merged, and the trophies were made from recycled pine scavenged from past productions.

Acknowledging sector shortfalls that have amplified over the past two years – including unliveable wages, wavering mental wellbeing and an undeniable outcry for diversity and inclusion – Kian and Teh said they were optimistic and realistic on what it takes to shape a better industry.

“As the first co-presidents who are also queer people of colour, we want to make big changes – but this takes time,” Teh said. “We want to refocus on ethics and values, which are as important as glitz and glamour.”

Co-president Kian said: “We have to be accountable for what we are awarding and acknowledging.”

First Nations artists led the winners in contemporary and experimental practice, including Wiradjuri choreographer Joel Bray’s Considerable Sexual License for Darebin Arts Speakeasy and Yirramboi performances Arterial by Na Djinang Circus and Birrpai by Wakka Wakka, Ngugi dancer Ngioka Bunda-Heath.

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An outstanding theatre performance award went to Dan Spielman for Melbourne Theatre Company’s Sexual Misconduct of the Middle Classes and Malthouse Theatre’s groundbreaking immersive Because The Night won outstanding set and sound design in the theatre category.

The Gospel According to Jesus, Queen of Heaven starring Kristen Smyth, a queer reimagining of the biblical leader, and Kerosene with rising star Izabella Yena, a story of a friendship severed by domestic violence, won best in-person production for independent theatre.

Artistic and life partners, choreographer Graeme Murphy and ballet dancer Janet Vernon, took out the lifetime achievement award.

The full ceremony can be viewed on demand at Australian Digital Concert Hall, and a full list of winners is at greenroom.org.au

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