Chapman Tripp Theater Awards to Be Held at the St. James Theatre on Dec. 6

Winners will be announced at what is considered to be the grandest of all events for Wellington City's vibrant arts community, the Chapman Tripp Theatre Awards to be held at the St James Theatre, December 6, 2009.

Wellington theatre critics have narrowed down the year's best and brightest theatre shows from 100 eligible productions to three nominees in each category.

Mark Westerby, the awards artistic producer, said the diversity of this year's crop of creative ventures was encapsulated with the shows nominated for Best Production.

"In this top category, there are original shows that canvas one of the most significant researchers in history, a play set in the real-life bedroom of the main protagonist, and a production that turned marketing on its head to become the play itself," said Mr Westerby.

Also presented on the night will be the Mayor's Award for Significant Contribution to the Theatre. Last year's recipient was Sunny Amey (QSM).

The Trustees of the Chapman Tripp Theatre Awards Trust have signalled an exciting change from previous years. The awards ceremony will be held at the St James Theatre from 6pm Sunday December 6 with the awards to be announced in the main theatre, followed by buffet dinner and entertainment.

Celebrated chef Ruth Pretty will provide a sumptuous buffet meal, and Will Ricketts' (Phoenix Foundation, Wild Bill Ricketts) band The Canapés will supply the post-ceremony entertainment.

Tickets for this unmissable event on the Wellington theatre calendar are available by calling Mark Westerby on 04 498 6311 or emailing mark@theproducer.co.nz

A full list of categories and nominees will be announced in the Dominion Post's newly revamped arts section on November 26.