NIDA acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we learn and tell stories, the Bidjigal, Gadigal, Dharawal and Dharug peoples, and we pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past and present.

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Where to Watch NIDA Alumni in February 2025

Erotic thriller Babygirl is in cinemas now starring Nicole Kidman, with Sophie Wilde (Acting, 2019) playing the ambitious assistant and secondary antagonist, Esme. This mesmerising story of power and control follows CEO Romy as she becomes entangled in an affair with her significantly younger intern leading to a spiralling chain of manipulation, deceit, and blackmail.

Sophie Wilde in the film 'Babygirl' wearing a coat and looking serious.
Still image of Sophie Wilde (Acting, 2019) in the A24 film Babygirl.

The highly anticipated Australian mini-series Apple Cider Vinegar is landing on Netflix on 6 February following the rise and fall of fictional wellness influencer Belle Gibson. Set during the dawn of social media, this captivating drama unravels the deception at the heart of Gibson’s online empire. A stellar lineup of NIDA alumni have lent their talents this story, including Catherine McClements (Acting, 1985), Susie Porter (Acting, 1995), Doris Younane (Acting, 1986), Sally McKenzie (Acting, 1977), and Essie Davis (Acting, 1992). Behind the scenes, Jessica Marshall (Writing, 2015), who spoke with us in 2024 about her contributions, served as script coordinator, Greg Saunders (Acting, 1983) assisted as drama coach, and Jenny Kent (Acting, 1991) refined performances as dialect coach. Apple Cider Vinegar is a bitterly modern fable about the dark side of ambition and influence.

The acclaimed Aussie drama series The Newsreader returns to ABC this February with its highly anticipated third season. Set against the turbulent backdrop of 1980s broadcast journalism, the series follows embattled news anchor Helen Norville and driven reporter Dale Jennings as they grapple with cut-throat studio politics and their own personal ambitions. NIDA alumna Anna Torv (Acting, 2001) delivers a commanding performance as Helen, while Gypsy Taylor (Design, 2003) lends her expertise to the show’s impeccable costume design, bringing the bold fashion of the era to life. Don’t miss this gripping dive into the high-stakes world of news media.

Cast and Crew of 'The Pirates of Penzance' sitting on stage.
Cast and Crew of The Pirates of Penzance playing at the Hayes Theatre from 14 February.

X marks the spot at the Hayes Theatre as The Pirates of Penzance make land on 14 February. On stage, Brittanie Shipway (Musical Theatre, 2016) will lend her voice to this beloved swashbuckling adventure comedy as Ruth and Mabel. Behind the scenes, Costume Designer Lily Mateljan (Costume, 2022) has conceived a wardrobe befitting the motley crew and Set Designer Nick Fry (Design, 2016 & Master of Design, 2018) will transport the audience to Cornwall in the 1800s. Sound Designer Daniel Herten (Technical Theatre and Stage Management, 2021) rounds out the creative team, ensuring the famous operetta can be heard whether you’re seated in the audience or on the stage. Set sail for a night of music, mischief, and mayhem!

Exploring the intersection of love, loss, and artificial intelligence, Don’t Save Me is a thought-provoking new work featuring a talented team of NIDA alumni and graduands. Written by Karina Young (Writing for Performance, 2024) as part of her NIDA Masters of Fine Arts major work and directed by Directing student Nelson Blake, the production observes the moral dilemmas of recreating loved ones through AI. The creative vision is brought to life by Set & Costume Designer Andrea Knezevic (Design, graduand), Lighting Designer Topaz Marlay-Cole (Technical Theatre and Stage Management, graduand) and Dramaturg Lily Thomson (Writing for Performance, 2024). On stage Raechyl French (Masters of Voice, 2021) navigates this gripping narrative, supported by a dedicated production team, including Stage Manager Naomi O’Connor (Technical Theatre and Stage Management, graduand) and Production Manager Joel Montgomery (Technical Theatre and Stage Management, 2023). On stage at KXT on Broadway from 26 February – 8 March, Don’t Save Me is a must-watch for audiences intrigued by the future of human connection.

Nucleus is Alana Valentine’s (Playwriting, 1989) explosive new play on stage at Griffin Theatre from 14 February. This compelling and highly relevant production explores the clash between personal ambition and environmental responsibility, brought to life by a passionate cast and crew. Paula Arundell (Acting, 1995) will feature as one of two leads, with Isabel Hudson (Design, 2015) behind the scenes, crafting the evocative set, and Verity Hampson (Technical Production, 2005) illuminating the stage with striking lighting design. Stage Manager Tanya Leach (Technical Production, 1985) ensures the seamless execution of this high-stakes drama. Don’t miss this unflinching exploration of what’s at the core of our humanity.

Paula Arundell  in the Griffin Theatre's production of 'Nucleus' surrounded by colourful bubbles.
Paula Arundell (Acting, 1995) in the Griffin Theatre’s production of Nucleus. Photo by Brett Boardman.

A poignant, yet witty drama, 4000 Miles returns to Sydney Theatre Company for the first time in 20 years to tell a story that bridges generations. Directed by Kenneth Moraleda (Acting, 1995), with Shiv Palekar (Acting, 2014) and Ariadne Sgouros (Acting, 2017) delivering captivating performances, the production explores love, loss, and the unexpected connections that can heal a family. Behind the scenes, the creative brilliance of Jeremy Allen (Design, 2015), Kelsey Lee (Design, 2018), and Emma White (Design, 2019) bring this rich and nuanced story to life. 4000 Milesis a heartfelt triumph on stage from 8 February.

The AACTA Awards will be held on 7 February at HOTA’s Theatre, Surfers Paradise with live coverage of the ceremony streaming on 10play and Channel 10. Many NIDA alumni have been nominated for awards across a range of categories:

Best Mini-Series
Justin Kurzel (Design, 1995) – Exposure (Executive Producer)

Best Lead Actress in Film
Sarah Snook (Acting, 2008) – Memoir of a Snail
Anna Torv (Acting, 2001) – Force of Nature: The Dry 2

Best Lead Actress in a Drama
Anna Torv (Acting, 2001) Territory

Best Lead Actor in a Drama
Rob Collins (Acting, 2013) – Total Control

Best Performance in a Comedy
Genevieve Hegney (Acting, 1999) – Colin From Accounts

Best Supporting Actor in a Film
Hugo Weaving (Acting, 1981) – How to Make Gravy
Richard Roxburgh (Acting, 1986) – Force of Nature: The Dry 2

Best Supporting Actress in a Drama
Essie Davis (Acting, 1992) – Exposure
Heather Mitchell (Acting, 1983) – Fake
Sophie Wilde (Acting, 2019) – Boy Swallows Universe

Best Short Film
Matthew Backer (Acting, 2010) – Die Bully Die

Best Online Drama or Comedy
Wendy Mocke (Acting, 2017) – Bad Ancestors

Best Costume Design in Television
Rita Carmody (Design, 2007) – Heartbreak High
Xanthe Heubel (Design, 2003) – The Artful Dodger

Best Casting in Film
Annie Murtagh-Monks (Acting, 1983) – Runt

Best Screenplay in Film
Nico Lathouris (Acting, 1968) – Furiosa: A Max Max Saga

Best Drama Series
– NIDA’s Deputy Chair, Darren DaleTotal Control

*Header image from left: Anna Torv (Acting, 2001) and Sam Reid star in the ABC series The Newsreader