About NIDA
NIDA acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we learn and tell stories, the Bidjigal and Gadigal people, and we pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and emerging.
Founded in 1958 as Australia’s National Institute of Dramatic Art, NIDA is both Australia’s preeminent performing arts educator, and one of the most globally respected brands in its field.
NIDA’s unparalleled practice-based learning, connections to industry and culture of innovation have produced some of the world’s most influential and in-demand storytellers across stage, screen and beyond.
We offer an unmatched range and depth of industry-relevant training across performing arts disciplines including: acting, costume, cultural leadership, design, directing, make-up, musical theatre, props, scenic construction, stage management, technical theatre, and writing.
This, along with the Institute’s international networks and deep industry links, ensures our graduates are immediately employable, enjoying successful careers in theatre, dance and opera companies, festivals and events, film, television and games production.
NIDA’s goal is to empower storytellers of all ages and backgrounds, wherever they may be. From our acclaimed undergraduate and postgraduate degrees and vocational diplomas, to open short courses; from transformative corporate training and partnerships, to much-loved school programs; from powerful in-studio and online learning to experiences yet to be imagined; NIDA continues to invest in bold new initiatives.
In addition to our much-respected accredited courses, NIDA is one of the few creative educators in Australia to have also successfully translated these skills for businesses and leaders through our corporate training and commercial partnerships, generating independent revenue streams.
NIDA is the heart of an increasingly connected Australian performing arts ecosystem.
OUR VISION
The world’s most wanted storytellers.
OUR PURPOSE
To unlock the power of the performing arts across stage, screen, future media and beyond.
OUR DNA
1. Respect your talent
Take bold leaps, challenge limiting beliefs and honour the qualities that make each of us unique.
2. Liberate imagination
Strive to see your world through new eyes, and inspire others to do the same. Shine a light on what is possible, rather than simply what is.
3. Every role matters
Embrace the incredible power of collaboration, inclusivity and collective identity. Like any great ensemble, every role enriches the whole.
4. Master the art
Never rest on yesterday’s success. Talent may open doors, but it’s the never-ending pursuit of mastery that creates what’s next.
5. Use your voice
Use your voice to truly create, inspire and improve the world. Speak your truth fearlessly and create a safe space for others to do the same.
Our supporters
As a not-for-profit organisation, NIDA acknowledges the generous support of our donors, corporate partners and sponsors who assist us in providing the best teaching resources, training opportunities and educational experiences available.
NIDA receives funding from the Australian Government through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications and is a member of the Australian Roundtable for Arts Training Excellence (Arts8): an initiative between the national performing arts training organisations and the Australian Government committed to providing unique and high-level training for emerging artists.
Want to know more?
NIDA’s main campus is located in Kensington, Sydney, Australia, and is made up of a range of state-of-the-art rehearsal and performance venues.
You can contact us about courses, check out upcoming performances or join our mailing list to stay up to date. Or follow us and join our community of actors, directors, designers, film buffs, theatre-lovers and supporters.
