Performing Arts shine in Australia Day Awards

The performing arts were in the spotlight at this year’s Australia Day awards with some 34 men and women applauded for their contribution to the arts.

Published: 30 January, 2019

Some of the founding lights of our industry were recognised, including Mr Carillo Bailleau Gantner, Malthouse Theatre founder and Chair of Sidney Myer Fund, who was appointed as Companion of the Order of Australia (AC), the highest award, for his eminent service to the community through professional involvement in and philanthropic support for the performing and visual arts, and to Australia–Asia cultural exchange. Tony Coldwell, one of the founders of Circus Oz, was appointed a Member of the Order (AM) for significant service to the circus arts as a performer, designer, director and administrator.

Particular congratulations to a number of AMPAG members, including our own AMPAG Deputy Chair, Mary Jo Capps, who was appointed as Officer of the Order (AM) for significant service to performing arts administration, particularly to music, and to business. Michael Ullmer, Chair of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, was appointed AO for distinguished service to the performing and visual arts through a range of roles, and to the finance and banking industry. Elena Kats Chernin, who received an AO for distinguished service to the performing arts, particularly to music, as an orchestral, operatic and chamber music composer, has worked with many AMPAG members, creating works across all genres and fulfilling commissions for and performing with the ACO, the Adelaide, Tasmanian, Melbourne and Sydney Orchestras, the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra and Musica Viva among others.

Stars of stage and screen recognised in the honours list this year include Olivia Newton John, who received the highest award (AC) for eminent service to community health, particularly for people living with cancer, through support for medical research, and as a songwriter and performer. Kylie Ann Minogue was appointed AO for distinguished service to the performing arts as a national and international recording artist and entertainer.

A full list of Award recipients can be found here https://www.gg.gov.au/australia-day-2019-honours-list