About NIDA

The National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) redefines world-leading performance arts education. We nurture ‘the world’s most wanted storytellers’ through unparalleled practice-based learning, ongoing connections to industry and a culture of creative innovation.

Our bold creative skills training, deep industry connections and international networks ensure our graduates are immediately employable, building successful careers in – and between – theatre, dance and opera companies, festivals and events, film, television and games production. NIDA is the heart of an increasingly connected performing arts ecosystem. Our acclaimed undergraduate and postgraduate degrees offer an unmatched range and depth in practicebased, industry-relevant education across performing arts disciplines including: acting, costume, cultural leadership, design, directing, makeup, musical theatre, props, stage management, technical theatre, voice and writing. NIDA’s goal is to empower storytellers of all ages and backgrounds, wherever they may be. We are committed to drawing on a range of lived experiences and perspectives in our creative work, and cultivating a community and a culture that are both inclusive and empowering. Our short courses foster industryrelevant skills and new capabilities for thousands of Australians each year. The ever-popular courses are delivered through a range of formats, including in-studio and, increasingly, online. We have translated our expertise in creative education into transformative corporate partnerships and training that generate independent revenue streams and help businesses and leaders connect and communicate better.

Supported by the Australian Government through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications, NIDA maintains strong links with national and international arts training organisations and industry partners including theatre, dance and opera companies, cultural festivals and film and television producers. NIDA’s success draws from our extraordinary creative community: our talented students, our brilliant alumni, our committed staff, our insightful Board and our many collaborators. These include the vital strategic relationships we have with organisational partners such as UNSW, our corporate partners and donors and a huge number of industry experts who work with us in our practice-led courses, ambitious performance works and forward-thinking activities. All our activities are geared to helping NIDA to generate cultural change, develop new approaches and foster connections that build practical creative skills, inspire confidence and articulate our ever-expanding national story.

Images, this page (from top to bottom): Ghost Lights, triple j music video shooting for Genes, Roundabout (Photos: Patrick Boland) Opposite page: Ghost Lights (Photo: Morgan Moroney)

VISION

The world’s most wanted storytellers.

PURPOSE

To unlock the power of the performing arts across stage, screen, future media and beyond.

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.