THE 12th annual Helpmann Awards were presented last night at the Sydney Opera House, with Hugh Jackman making a surprise appearance.
The Helpmann Awards, which recognises distinguished artistic achievement and excellence in Australia's live performing arts sectors, also serve as a reminder of the central place live performance takes in the lives of Australians young and old. What began in 2001 has grown into a globally recognised event.
Actor Simon Burke hosted the evening’s ceremony, which featured performances by the cast of Cirque du Soleil, The South Pacific Company, The Chorus Line Company, and artistes from The Australian Ballet. There was also a performance from the cast of A Long Way to the Top, featuring Marcia Hines, Jon Stevens, Brian Cadd, Doug Parkinson, anddf Ian Moss. Dan Sultan also performed a Tribute to Jimmy Little AO.
NSW Minister for Tourism, Major Events and the Arts, George Souris, congratulated the winners of this year’s awards.
“It has been a tremendous year for live entertainment in Australia, particularly NSW with our dream run of major musical premieres,” Mr Souris said.
“The extraordinary talent of our vibrant live performance industry continues to shine both on stage and behind the scenes. I am a fan of live performance and greatly admire the artistic brilliance and creativity celebrated through the Helpmann Awards held in our global city of Sydney, the live performance capital of Australia. The Helpmanns are the premier awards event for the live performance industry, highlighting the significant contribution the sector makes to our State and country."
Among just a few of this year’s winners were Cate Blanchett for Best Female Actor in a Play, Paul Capsis for Best Male Actor in a Play, Mitchell Butel for Best Male Actor in a Musical and Pamela Rabe for Best Female Actor in a Musical.

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2012 Annual Helpmann AwardsSource:
Sydney Central