NIDA warmly welcomes celebrated Theatre Director Darren Yap as Head of Diploma of Musical Theatre (DMT) and Diploma of Stage and Screen Performance (DSSP).
A NIDA alum, Darren graduated from the Directing course in 1997 and has built an illustrious career directing musicals, plays, new Australian work and large-scale outdoor events across Australia and the world. His theatre credits include productions for Belvoir Street Theatre , Griffin Theatre, National Theatre of Parramatta, Ensemble Theatre, and the Hayes Theatre, as well as international work with C.A.T. Productions, and the Really Useful Group in Tokyo. In 2025, Darren was honoured with two Sydney Theatre Awards for Best Director for his work on ZOMBIE the Musical at the Hayes Theatre and YONG for Monkey Baa as Best Production for Young People.
Liz Hughes said, “We are delighted to have Darren Yap join NIDA as the Head of Diplomas of Musical Theatre and Stage and Screen Performance. His celebrated career and deep commitment to storytelling will bring great insight and inspiration to the role. I would also like to acknowledge Mark Gaal (Directing, 1984) one of our longest serving course leaders who has decided to go part time after 15 years with NIDA and I am truly grateful for his unwavering dedication to the Diploma students and faculty during his tenure.”
Darren’s connection to NIDA has remained strong over the years, frequently returning as a guest director for student productions. Most recently, he directed the 2024 student musical The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and he recently collaborated with Diploma of Musical Theatre students on their highly-successful Showcase with Brittanie Shipway (Musical Theatre, 2016).
Darren Yap said: “I am thrilled to commence my role as Head of DMT and DSSP. My connection with NIDA has been incredibly important throughout my career. This is the right time to guide future theatre makers. I am truly honoured that Mark Gaal has given me his support to be a part of his legacy that he has forged for the past 15 years.”
Deputy Director Learning & Innovation (VET) Mark Gaal said, “Darren’s considerable work as an actor and director across many forms – musicals, plays and screen, positions him perfectly to nurture a new generation of performers.”
Darren commenced his new role on Monday, 29 September.