The New Theatre - Newtown

As the oldest continuously producing theatre company in New South Wales, the New Theatre has seen its fair share of talent in its history, spanning more than 88 years.

One Australian actress has had a long association with the theatre and that's Helen Tonkin.

Helen is an Australian actress with many talents, including screen and theatre, but in her words she is really a "creature of the theatre", and her association with the New Theatre has allowed her to share this passion.

Helen rehearsed her first play there as an actress at the end of 1999, and has since performed in several productions. Her last production at the New Theatre was When The Rain Stops Falling, and she is now in preparations for Significant Other, showing in June.

“I have directed two of my favourite directorial ventures at The New," Helen revealed to 2042, "Equus and Jerusalem, which, to my surprise, got seven Sydney Theatre Award nominations!

"I have also been a play assessor there, and I am currently an Artistic Associate, which I have been for a number of years.

"I really enjoy that position working with Artistic Director Louise Fischer and the other tireless workers on the Management Committee.“

Of all the theatres where Helen has worked in Sydney, the New Theatre is easily her favourite, and she is proud of its achievement in becoming a major professional development theatre.

It has produced numerous directing and acting graduates, many of whom have gone on to spread their wings and be snapped up for Indie and Main Stage productions.

Helen is also in charge of The Silver Gull Play Award (sponsored by The Buzz Sydney), which the New Theatre took over from Subtle Nuance Theatre last year.

She has been a judge for the award since its inception (now in its seventh year) and told 2042 she is delighted to be entrusted with this role.

You can see Helen in Significant Other at The New Theatre, June 2- 26, 2021. For further details and to book online, go to the New website www.newtheatre.org.au.