Finleys 07- The Nominees Are

Thu, 3 Jan 2008, 10:57 am

Melz77 posts in thread

Yes... the ITA have announced the list of Nominees for The Finley Awards 2007.

All will be revealed on the glamorous night - Saturday 19th Jan 2008 at the Lady Wardle Performing Arts Centre, St Mary's Anglican Girls School, Elliott Rd, Karrinyup. Doors open at 6.30pm with a 7pm start!! Tickets $22 - Book through BOCS 9484 1133 http://www.bocsticketing.com.au/get_events_info.asp?id=FIN08

List of Nominees are:

Best Actor:
Bryn Coldrick (Black Books, Blak Yak)
Nathan Da Cunha (Blood Brothers, Melville Theatre Co.)
Tim Prosser (One Day of the Year, Stirling Players)
Leon Ousby (Owl and the Pussycat, Kwinana Theatre Workshop)
Wayne Garton (Man and Boy, Garrick Theatre)
Dean Schulze (Art, Old Mill Theatre)

Best Actress:
Val Riches (Navigating, Melville Theatre)
Analisa Bell (Vagina Monologues, Playlovers)
Jacqui Warner (Birthday Party, Grads)
Gemma Northover (Picasso's WOmen, Blak Yak)
Clare Pintenge (Owl and the Pussycat, Kwinana Theatre Workshop)

Best Musical Theatre Performer:
Priscilla Busher (Music Man, Murray Music & Drama)
Eddie Stowers (Jesus Christ Superstar, Darlington Theatre)
Tim How (By Jeeves, Roleystone)
Dixie Farinosi (Cabaret, Wanneroo Rep)
Cynthia Fenton (Eurobat, Playlovers)
Tamara Woolrych (Eurobeat, Playlovers)

Best Director:
Katy Mitton (My Very Own Story, Darlington Theatre)
Kim Martin (The Club, Roleystone)
Les Ashenden (The Owl and the Pussycat, Kwinana Theatre Workshop)
Ailsa Travers (Man and Boy, Garrick Theatre)
Sue Hayward (Vagina Monologues, Playlovers)
Siobhan OGara (Necessary Targets, Old Mill Theatre)
Pat Stroud (A Hard God, Harbour Theatre)

Best Musical Direction:
Priscilla Busher (Music Man, Murray Music and Drama)
Craig Dalton (Cabaret, Wanneroo Repertory Club)
Kate McIntosh (Jesus Christ Superstar, Darlington Theatre)
Kimberley Shaw (Eurobeat, Playlovers)

Best Newcomer:
David Holle (Journey's End, Goldfields Repertory)
Nathan Da Cunha (Blood Brothers, Melville Theatre Co.)

Best Other Than A Lead - Male:
Alan Kennedy (A Hard God, Harbour Theatre)
David Bruce (The Importance of Being Ernest, GRADS)
Tim Nolan (Orphans, Old Mill Theatre)
Scott Northover (Black Books, Blak Yak)
Matt Longman (A Hard God, Harbour Theatre)
David Gregory (The Birthday Party, GRADS)
Andrew Milne (Pride and Prejudice, Melville Theatre Co.)

Best Other Than A Lead - Female:
Jacqui Warner (Romeo & Juliet, Darlington Theatre)
Jayma Knudsen (Pride and Prejudice, Melville Theatre Co.)
Rosemary Longhurst (Necessary Targets, Old Mill Theatre)
Elizabeth Jansen (Vagina Monologues, Playlovers)
Olivia Darby (Quality Street, Garrick Theatre)

Best Costumes:
Journey's End - Goldfields Rep Club
Pride and Prejudice - Melville Theatre Co.
Romeo and Juliet - Darlington Theatre Players
Eurobeat - Playlovers
Cabaret - Wanneroo Repertory Club
House of Frankenstein - Garrick Theatre
Camelot - Stirling Players

Best Set:
Orphans - Old Mill Theatre
Habeus Corpus - Wanneroo Repertory Club
A Passionate Woman - Melville Theatre Co.
Man and Boy - Garrick Theatre
Journeys End - Goldfields Repertory Club
Cabaret - Wanneroo Repertory Club
Playlovers - Out of Order

See you at the Finleys

Thread (77 posts)

Threaded Flat

MelzThu, 3 Jan 2008, 10:57 am

List of Nominees are:

See you at the Finleys

Walter PlingeThu, 3 Jan 2008, 01:03 pm

Finley clarification

Hello Everyone Just to correct one of the nominations Kimberley Shaw should be in the Best Director category , not in the Best Musical Direction category. Sorry Kim Kerri

Louisa FitzhardingeThu, 3 Jan 2008, 05:22 pm

Congratulations to

Congratulations to everyone! Especially Dave, Nathan and Andrew ;) By the way, I thought the nominees weren't usually announced until the actual ceremony to encourage attendance - is that a change this year?

Paul TreasureThu, 3 Jan 2008, 05:47 pm

Finley Nomination Query - MD

Sorry Kerri, Another query about the list of noms: Under Musical Direction there is a nomination for Priscilla Busher for Music Man at Murray Music & Drama. Priscilla didn't MD this show! So is this nomination for Grace Crawford for Music Man at Murray? or for Priscilla Busher for something else? or possibly both?

Walter PlingeThu, 3 Jan 2008, 07:03 pm

About bloody time!

MelzThu, 3 Jan 2008, 07:12 pm

List of Nominees

Greetings to all... I submitted the list of nominees as it has been published in the ITA Link Newsletter... any errors/corrections/alterations/omissions/etc... I am sure will be submitted by a representative of the ITA. Any issues or comments are not to be directed to myself, as I merely reported the relevant news at hand and in an effort to increase awareness and interest to attend the ITA Finley Awards. I hope you will all make it along... it will be a terrific night!! Melz

Walter PlingeThu, 3 Jan 2008, 07:50 pm

So... what's missing?

So, the clubs who won't be going at all. KADS, Rockingham, Mandurah Little Theatre... Did these clubs not enter or have they just been snubbed? How many people in Grease and We Will Rock You would have been going but won't now? This is why I don't like publishing the nominees... Would Murray's Les Miz have gone to the Finley's 2 years ago thinking they'd been snubbed with no noms when they ended up winning? Also, it makes it look as though a show with only one redeeming feature is a lot better than a show that only just didn't make the grade across the board There are one or two shows on this list where their nomination was the only good thing about them, whereas shows that were a lot better than them have been snubbed And we now know that Kimberley Shaw isn't going to win either of the two categories, they wouldn't have misplaced it otherwise... So any opinions about what has been snubbed? I reckon if KADS has entered then Bus Stop is a snub! Couple of other shows missing from this list as well.

Louisa FitzhardingeThu, 3 Jan 2008, 08:29 pm

Just because a club doesn't

Just because a club doesn't receive a nomination, doesn't mean it's been "snubbed". The Finley judges meant no insult to these clubs' shows by not including them on the list. Of course some groups and people are going to be left out some years; it's the nature of competition. I for one quite like the idea of publishing the nominees - it kind of builds up the excitement in advance. It doesn't mean only the nominees are going to attend. Perth theatre is so tight-knit and incestuous - we've all got friends in different companies - and besides, whatever happened to backing the people (friends or not) we've seen onstage and loved and feel deserve to win? I'm not up for an award but I'll be there with bells on. Should be a great night!

Walter PlingeFri, 4 Jan 2008, 12:07 am

Finley nominations correction.

Hello everyone Two points to make please. Firstly, the nominations were made a number of weeks ago and it is simply a typing error that have created the problems here, nothing else. Kimberley Shaw was nominated in the Best Director category for Eurobeat. It was a typing error that put her in the other category. Secondly, Priscilla Busher has been nominated for Best Musical Director category for BY JEEVES. Once again, a typing error that was sent to the printers. Typing errors don't mean that people haven't won awards. I am very sorry that these two errors have occured. Please accept my apologies. I hope that this clears up the confusion. KIMBERLEY SHAW - NOMINATED FOR BEST DIRECTOR FOR EUROBEAT. PRISCILLA BUSHER - NOMINATED FOR BEST MUSICAL DIRECTOR FOR BY JEEVES.

Walter PlingeFri, 4 Jan 2008, 12:29 am

Damned if we do, damned if we don't

*Sigh* Thanks, Louisa - yes, this is something new this year. Every year since the Finleys were upgraded - EVERY single year - people have complained that the short lists of nominees were not released beforehand. This year, the ITA committee decided to try it. Never let it be said that we don't listen and don't try anything new. Gloria has used exactly - EXACTLY - the argument that everyone uses against releasing the nominees: "I'm not nominated so I'm not going." Okay, Gloria - what IS missing? The shortlists for Best Play and Best Musical. And there are 1st, 2nd and 3rd places in BOTH categories (another new feature). There is the Brian Maddox Youth Award, the Sheila McHale Achievement Award, the Liz Crews FOH Award. And yes - okay - here I go and spoil the surprise: There are umpteen Adjudicators' Awards recognising various aspects of shows that either NEEDED recognition, or just didn't fit into any other category. Just because (fill in the blank) isn't nominated above, DOES NOT automatically mean it won't be getting anything. No club has been snubbed. As for Grease and We Will Rock You - they were not entered. Come see the show, decide for yourself, then complain later. Or, if you feel that strongly about it, join the ITA committee (the AGM is next month!) and work from the inside to improve things. Jarrod Buttery ITA Committee Member

KimberleyFri, 4 Jan 2008, 07:42 am

What I would love to have...

Is a list of the clubs up for Best Play and Best Musical... That is a list of the fifty something shows entered. Some clubs are better than communicating than others and some people aren't sure if their show is entered. There are very recent examples of clubs who weren't nominated for ANYTHING that won big awards. Regards Kimberley (Happy to be nominated anywhere at all but happier to be entered)

Walter PlingeFri, 4 Jan 2008, 08:54 am

Snipers

You can please all of the people some the time, you can please some of the people all of the time, but you can't please all of the people all of the time. There are always snipers in the wings, unfortunately that is all they do, snipe. If you ask for their solution they are like politicians, no policies just snipe at the opposition. In my opinion far too many thespians are awards orientated, they forget that a full house every night is the best reward you can get. Keep up the good work Jarrod and other committee members.

dancektpFri, 4 Jan 2008, 09:28 am

Choreographers

From a purely personal point of view. Why are there only awards for best director and best Musical Director? What about choreographer? I'm sure there are enough who have been involved with shows this year for there to be nominations. And I don't necessarily mean Best. What about Oustanding Choreographic Achievement, the person or persons who have made the biggest impact on a show through the choreography. If you look at the Tony's for example the winner of best chore this year was not so much dance but stylised movement. Just thought I would throw this out there to see other peoples opinions. Cheers Kristen

Walter PlingeFri, 4 Jan 2008, 09:32 am

Lovely to hear you are

Lovely to hear you are never happier than when being entered Kimberley. No wonder martin is such a happy man.

KimberleyFri, 4 Jan 2008, 10:22 am

Ah Dean

I checked what I had written for spelling errors...but not for Schulze potential. Congratulations on your nomination.

Walter PlingeFri, 4 Jan 2008, 10:33 am

Choreography

It would seem an oversight on the part of the ITA committee & adjudicators along with lighting, sound and all other facets of theatre that are not noticed. Rest assured Kristen your choreography has been noticed by the punters that buy the tickets, ans they are people that count.

Walter PlingeFri, 4 Jan 2008, 10:41 am

List of Musicals entered for 2007

Hello I have compiled a list of the musicals that were entered into the Finley Awards this year. I don't think I have missed any, but no doubt will be told very quickly if I have. ALL of the following musicals are up for Best Musical. In no particular order Jesus Christ Superstar - Darlington Music Man - Murray Music Camelot - Stirling Eurobeat - Playlovers How to Succeed in Business - WA Stage School Once upon a Mattress - Roleystone Cabaret - Wanneroo Rep Aladdin - Old Mill Blood Brothers - Melville Paris- Murray Music By Jeeves - Roleystone

David GreenFri, 4 Jan 2008, 10:44 am

That Sounds Good

Hey I like the sound of Choreography category; needless to say there are a lot of shows that have fantastic people working behind the scenes to make sure actors put the right foot at the right time to the right music. However I'm not sure how such a category could really be judged unless you had a few choreographers on the panel who specialize in different styles (Being there are many different types of choreography and styles)...and being Perth is so small, chances are the panel members would be up for nomination for their own work ;) LOL I think it would be a great idea as I have seen many plays with brilliant choreography in it, we just need to work out how it could be judged. Suggestion for next year maybe Keep Smiling :) David Green DRAGON FILMS www.davidgreenenterprises.com

Walter PlingeFri, 4 Jan 2008, 10:53 am

Plays entered for the Finleys 2007

Now the plays that were entered this year. ALL of the following plays are in the running for Best Play. Once again , in no particular order. Journey's End - Goldfields Rep Art- Old Mill Pride and Prejudice - Melville The One Day of the Year - Stirling Over My Dead Body - KTW Dramas in Pyjamas - KADS Its My Party and I'll Die if I Want To - Garrick Henry V - GRADS Owl and the Pussycat - KTW Black Books - Blak Yak Secret Bridesmaids Business - Wanneroo A Passionate Woman - Melville Flying Feathers - Endeavour Out of Order - Playlovers House of Frankenstein - Garrick The Vagina Monologues - Mandurah Little Theatre The Club - Roleystone Strike up the Binns - KTW The Importance of Being Ernest - Old Mill My Very Own Story - Darlington Man and Boy - Garrick The Castle - Goldfields Rep Picasso's Women - Blak Yak Pygmalion - Melville Murder Deferred - Stirling The Importance of Being Ernest - GRADS The Birthday Party - GRADS Death Warmed Up - KADS Necessary Targets - Old Mill A Hard God - Harbour Up For Grabs - KTW My Friend Miss Flint - Garrick The Vagina Monologues - Playlovers Romeo and Juliet - Darlington The Marquis - Stirling The Orphans - Old Mill Navigating - Melville Habeus Corpus - Wanneroo Bus Stop - KADS Natural Causes - Playlovers Quality Street - Garrick Office Hours - Harbour Murder by the Book - Stirling I do hope I haven't missed any. Kerri

Walter PlingeFri, 4 Jan 2008, 11:03 am

You can't please all the people all the time...

Nope, not an oversight on behalf of the ITA committee at all. Choreography, lights, sound, make-up, and others have been frequently discussed. Well, yes, we probably could give awards recognising every single aspect of theatre but we’d probably end up with a seven-hour show and would have to charge $100 per ticket to pay for all the trophies, engraving, certificates, etc. As with all things, the line has to be drawn somewhere to make the event manageable. If that’s still not satisfactory, then: a) I refer you to the afore-mentioned Adjudicators’ Awards… b) Feel free to come to the ITA AGM, get involved, and work with us to implement whatever changes you think might be an improvement. Jarrod Buttery ITA Committee Member

HeraldicFri, 4 Jan 2008, 03:11 pm

Finding Finleys

Its a well constructed reply Jarrod, and I hope people go to see who wins and congratulate them (club or individual) and not just expect the prize themselves. A Nomination for an individuals effort in this State is in itself a prize that one should acknowledge as a personal win! Roll on Finleys ....

Walter PlingeFri, 4 Jan 2008, 04:46 pm

what is the youth award

what is the youth award for, I reckon they should be some encouragement award for any junior members of the theatre, to, as there is quiet a few shows, that have lead roles, played by minors

Paul TreasureFri, 4 Jan 2008, 05:44 pm

Pleasing people

Thank you Kerri for the list! I will openly take my position here as one of the people against announcing the nominees. I acknowledge the ITA had to do it one year to see what the difference actually is. That said, I don't like it, can we please go back to the old way for next year! As someone who is involved in a load of productions every year in many different facets, (from directing right through to Front of Housing, or in this year's case tallying votes!) I always try to go to the Finley's if I can, because a show I have some emotional investment in is bound to get something, even if it's just a show a friend was in gets nominated for something. Admittedly I've only been once in the last 3 years but that's because Finley night has fallen on a performance night two of those years. Half of the excitement of previous years has been going in to the night blind, you have no idea who is going to get nominated for what. You have your ideas of who you think deserves a nod, and some of the nominees will be on your list, and some won't, and you have all of two minutes to digest that info before the announcement is made. It's a rush, it's a high! You are so delighted by someone's unexpected nomination that you totally forget it when someone else wins for something you thought was just ordinary. Then when it's someone you have an emotional investment in who pulls off a surprise nom AND then wins, the elation is incomparable! [I can still sometimes taste what it felt like when Nyree Hughes won Best Musical Theatre Performer for Anything Goes] And then if you are unlucky to have your own projects snubbed you don't feel it as badly because of your high for everyone else. [And I think we need to define snub here, I think both Gloria and I are using it in a different way to Jarrod and Louisa. I think Gloria meant snub as in unexpectedly not getting nominated, like Dreamgirls getting 'snubbed' for the Oscar last year, as opposed to a deliberate insult, which is how I think Louisa and Jarrod have interpreted her] This year, however, the excitement WON'T be as keen. There will be fewer surprises, both good and bad. There is certainly no where near the same level of excitement just reading Jacqui Warner's name twice, as opposed to hearing the buzz that would have been generated as someone read out her name a second time on the night. [BTW Jacqui if you read this, BIG congrats!] I'm sorry, I cannot see how announcing the nominees makes it more exciting! And let's put an end to the canard about attendance right now! There will be just as many people attending this year because they've heard the nominees beforehand as there will be deciding that there's no point going because they have no emotional investment in anything nominated. And yes, I know there are other awards, but if you have an emotional investment in only a couple of shows and you see they aren't nominated for anything, why would you go! Even if you do get a certificate, the certificates have now been degraded to the rank of some sort of consolation prizes: "Look, your show was crap at everything we consider important, but here, you were good at something we don't consider important!" I can just remember back to, was it 2004? when PlayLovers did Grease and I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change! and between them grabbed ALL the nominations by musicals barring only Priscilla for Salad Days. Thankfully they didn't announce the nominations in advance THAT year! Where would the excitement been then?! In the last couple of years the Finley's have been getting better and better, I feel that announcing the nominees was a step backwards, but only a small step backwards. It was an experiment we had to have, but can we please not do it next year? BTW - Thank you for deciding to announce first, second AND THIRD musicals... It means that in those years when PlayLovers blitzes someone else at least gets thrown a bone! [Oh... and kudos to PlayLovers for so often being so graceful in victory! You guys rock!]

Paul TreasureFri, 4 Jan 2008, 05:53 pm

Re-reading my own post.

"Even if you do get a certificate, the certificates have now been degraded to the rank of some sort of consolation prizes" Hmmm... before I get blasted, my point here is NOT that the certificates aren't important. WHATEVER the certificates are for (and I can remember some great ones: Best props, best panto horse, best set changes) they ARE important, and the adjudicators will have thought hard and seriously about them, in fact they are sometimes more heart felt than the "major" awards. My point was more that by announcing the nominees there is now some sort of separation between the listed awards and the adjudicator's certificates, and it FEELS like the certificates mean less.

TaureanFri, 4 Jan 2008, 06:42 pm

"Consolation" Certificates??? No Way!

I am glad you clarified that Paul. (and I am not "blasting you" here...)

I just want to assure everyone that the Adjudicators Award Certificates are in no way a "Consolation Prize". The intended recipients of these documents are equally and as carefully considered as each and every one of the "Trophy Awards" and (yes Paul, you are correct) in many cases even more so.

The "Adjudicators Awards" began being presented to clubs and individuals because, as was said earlier, the ITA do not have unlimited funds and the number of trophies that are able to be purchased simply doesn't cover the number of people that deserve to get one.

Hence the "Adjudicators Awards" were conceived.

They are not dished out at random and they are certainly not intended to be an also-ran consolation prize and I am sorry if anyone feels that the certificates are 2nd rate in some way.

Walter PlingeSat, 5 Jan 2008, 02:50 am

The Castle - produced by......

Hello! I hate to even bring it up, but since everyone else is making "tidy up" comments - would it be pertinent to mention that THE CASTLE was actually produced by the Goldfields Arts Centre and entered accordingly by that establishment. Many thanks xx

Walter PlingeSat, 5 Jan 2008, 09:03 am

Finleys '07

Many years ago when the Finley's where first introduced the format changed every year. Initially the plays and musical where in the same category, then, because a musical won nearly every year plays and musical where divided into two separate categories, correctly in my mind. Then one year the first three plays would be recognized, the next year the first ten and so on. Same with musicals. There was always consternation over venue/results/format and there always will. Being so closely linked to the base human emotion of security, some people are secure in their own mind and need no external reassurance. other are less secure and require varying degrees of external support. Surely Theatre is the end, not a Finley. A Finley is icing on the cake not the cake. Long live the icing far as I am concerned, don't get too precious about the way the icing is put on the cake, so we get told the colour of the icing, do you know the flavour or texture yet? Community Theatre in Perth is wonderfully healthy, competition is wonderfully healthy. Let us not make competition more important than Theatre. See you at the Finleys.

Walter PlingeSat, 5 Jan 2008, 10:05 am

The Finleys are a pile of

The Finleys are a pile of crap. Always have been, always will be. A celebration of mediocrity. And no, i'm not a 'sore loser'.

alanmSat, 5 Jan 2008, 10:43 am

Isn't great to see So Much Interest in the Finleys

It's great to see so much interest in the Finleys this year and I think the ITA did the right thing by publishing the nominees. It gives the people nominated a bigger/longer "period of excitement or anticipation" and let's face it, these people were nominated because they gave something "special" on the nights they were seen and its great to be rewarded by your peers. I haven't been nominated either, but I'm going along to support WA theatre and the ITA. As Jarrod said, if you want things to be done differently, don't whinge from the sidelines, step up and do something, join the ITA and be constructive from the inside. It's your ITA, support it.

Walter PlingeSat, 5 Jan 2008, 11:17 am

Walter Plunt

Such a grasp of the English language. To borrow from Richard Greene "there is not Groats-worth of wit in your argument"

Walter PlingeSat, 5 Jan 2008, 11:50 am

finleys 07

how can you say "they gave something special that night", what a load of rubbish, everyone in a show, wether chorus, or lead, gives their something special everynight. So I dont believe, it is correct. I dont like awards, because, again everyone in the show, puts their all into it. I know several brilliant performances that are not up for awards. It is only the judges opions, do away with awards, do we really need awards to make you feel like you are good, like mentioned above, bums on seats, and verbal "I enjoyed your performance," should be enough. Yes it does make other people who were in the same show, and know they did a brilliant job, a bit peeved, that one person should be picked out. I have always been under the impression, that a whole cast in a show, is a team, and should remain a team. Why not have a section then ( if you have to) a whole cast ensemble. But i prefer no awards, you cant help feel a little ( not me, iam just a ovserver) peeved, everyone is human. And some of the judges, MAY be quite gd friends with some in show,that helps

alanmSat, 5 Jan 2008, 12:31 pm

Cannot resist it alias, just got to reply

OK, so 'alias' you don't believe in awards, that's OK, you are entitled to your opinion, others quite obviously do agree with them and that's OK too. Yes the cast and crew are a team and collectively the team will produce a show which relies on everyone in it to make it work BUT there may be times when one person or another 'shines' and, in my opinion, there's no problem with acknowledging their efforts. Unlike you, I have never been 'peeved' because someone else got an award in a production I was part of, I've always been delighted for them. Yes, you are right, it's only the judge's opinion (based on a well structured system where any marks given have to be qualified) and others will disagree from time to time, but it's not the end of the world if anyone of us doesn't get an award, its really great if someone does. It's a fun thing, recognising the talents of some people, enjoying the moment and saying YES you did a great job, it's not about belittling those of us (me included) who didn't get an award. Its also about dressing up, being around people who share your hobby and a really good night out. It's also a shame that you had to suggest that the adjudicators would give an award to someone who is a friend, purely for that reason. Please remember that Adjudicators give freely of their time (seeing 50+ shows a year is no mean feat) they pay all their own expenses (fuel etc) and they make an active contribution to the ITA and WA Theatre, they should be commended not condemned.

Walter PlingeSat, 5 Jan 2008, 12:52 pm

To Be or Not To Be - at the Finleys

I agree with you wholeheartedly Alan, you're views mirror mine. The impertinence of Alias to suggest favoritism or nepotism is uncalled for and reprehensible. It one thing to say you don't agree with a system, but to imply corruption is quite another. If Alias feels there is corruption within the system then speak out, show the evidence, or keep very very quiet. PS. To Alias alone, are you implying biased in past results?

Walter PlingeSat, 5 Jan 2008, 01:40 pm

No iam not biased, and yes

No iam not biased, and yes of course iam pleased for those who get the awards, but people being people, some cant help filling a LITTLE out of sorts, it does not bother me personally, I do a show, and I put my heart and soul into my performances, as said, that is the judges choice, you will always get a difference of opion, someone will love your work and others will say oh no i didnt. I said about judges, MAY know someone, because once i was in a show, and the person concerned, told me that finley judges were in the audience who they knew, as friends, as they new they were coming, and they told this person, that they would be up for a nomination, but this person, was not supposed to say a thing, as they were friends of this person. If i can hold my head up at the end of the night knowing I did a good job, then thats all that matters. Its the same with sports, etc, why does there always have to be winners, why cant we all go out and perform or do our sports or whatever just for the love of, it for my the only awards i need is the audience applause. and this is a forum for opions, everyone is entitled to it, same as judges, some will like peoples opions some want take it or leave.

Walter PlingeSat, 5 Jan 2008, 02:12 pm

To Be or Not To be - at the Finleys

So are suggesting that there should be no winners in a sporting competition? No league tables, no winner no losers, how would you support a team, where would the interest be if every game was effectively a draw? So you are suggesting bias in adjudicating. I find it interesting that like to hear applause, is there a certain volume you like, so as not differentiate between a good performance a mediocre one or a poor one. How can anybody get any better if there is no critical review. Education may now be outcomes based but life is not, in the Real World there people that make things happen, those that watch things happen and those that wonder what happened. I would rather be in the first group and try and make things happen, and to do this you have to ride the punches, duck and dive, take criticism, take the hard knocks get up and start again. Don't cocoon yourself in a Cotton-wool padded PC world that in actuality does not exist, get out there and make yourself count. Life is all about winning and losing, take them out of the equation and what are you left with, a life a dull as ditch water. Competition is what makes life interesting.

Daniel KershawSat, 5 Jan 2008, 05:58 pm

Congratulations to all the

Congratulations to all the people nominated. I watched a number of shows this year and I can say that the standard of them were generally quite high, a comment the Finlay judges have themselves vocalised. I'm looking forward to the Finlay's. It's a great event to socialise and support other theatrical practitioners from around the state. I'll see you all there, Daniel.

Walter PlingeSun, 6 Jan 2008, 12:50 am

Winners in all aspects can be grinners

Alias sport and theatre are very similar. You perform / play and receive the adulation or possibly have a few walk outs at half time. But at the end of the day whether it be professional or amateur there always seems to be an element of who's the best. Example being AFL Football and the West Coast Eagles. They won the premiership back in 2006 and all involved in the club shared in the celebrations of being the best TEAM in 2006 BUT they still had their club champion awards ceremony to recognise outstanding achievements by individual players. Oh and guess what, they didn't win in 2007 but they still had their club champion awards night. Who makes these decisions? Well appropriately chosen people who have knowledge in that field, in this case football. Usually the coaches and the assistant coaches and possibly the match committee are the ones entrusted with this role. (How is this any different to our Finley adjudicators??) And it doesn't finish there. They have an award that celebrates the Fairest and Best Player of the whole competition so the individual awards just continue. Did any of the Eagles players get upset when Chris Judd (I hate to mention his name!) won his Brownlow Medal? Dean Cox could possibly be thinking "hey I made him look good by getting the ball down to him" but I wouldn't think so. So no precedent is being set here at the Finleys! In the theatre community we have the same type of thing. I personally think that it is great because there have been some outstanding performances and they do deserve to be celebrated. Yes Alias you are right ONE person does not maketh a show but does that mean we can't celebrate it. I have been in many shows in my short time involved with theatre. Some shows have featured prominently at the Finleys and some not so but these ones haven't stopped me coming back for another show and nor should they. To me the whole idea of the Finleys is to mainly celebrate the amazing theatre that goes on in this great state. I was very lucky to have won an individual award previously and that was very satisfying to know someone out there liked what I did but I must admit that the biggest buzz I have had was being part of a production that finished right up there in the best production stakes. Once the night is over though you get back to doing what you love to do. I believe that there are only a few people out there who are focussed on the prizes at the end. Maybe this is a good Website question??? All the best to the nominated ones and congratulations to the ITA committee for what I am sure will be a fantastic night!

Tari-XalyrSun, 6 Jan 2008, 07:22 pm

Congrats

Congratulations to all who were nominated. Congratulations to all who weren't. To all who have participated in community theatre in 2007. You have bought joy to your audience's and this never goes unnoticed. ~ Tari The Writer is a child forever listening at the keyhole of the adult world.

stingerMon, 7 Jan 2008, 10:28 am

"share your hobby "?

For many of us it is so much more than a hobby - it is a PASSION. The reward is the creation of a work of artistic merit. Recognition by ones peers is part of that. If the reward was merely "bums on seats" then it would be easy to pick the winners and we would all be doing high school musicals. I doubt the Finley judges were greatly swayed by the sizes of audiences - at least I hope they weren't! Ssstinger>>>

Walter PlingeMon, 7 Jan 2008, 05:27 pm

why does everyone on here

why does everyone on here who posts a comment profess to be an expert? i was of the impression that art was subjective, however, we seem desperate to identify what is 'the best', as oppose to just having individual opinion. having said that these awards do nothing but advertise local theatre and help promote the art in the state. it makes for interesting conversation, and makes people talk and discuss...therefore create maybe creativity. im afraid most people on here are self indulgent and if it is not 'their' opinion then it is the wrong opinion. i think the standard here in perth is good and is getting better, in terms of diversity. but dont for one minute think that these awards are the be all and end all. they are after all created and adjudicated by a few self appointed theatre goers. they are not nor i hope profess to be 'experts' in the field, rather a group that say what they enjoy and comment on its succesfulness with references to different areas. i have heard what some have said and not agreed, it doesnt mean i am wrong or they are right...just opinion. get over it perth, it is just an evening to enjoy, if you didnt get nominated dont cry, this event will not mean a thing other than a bit of fun!

HeraldicTue, 8 Jan 2008, 12:24 am

Finleys To Be or Not to Be?

My God! What an amazing response to this awards night! I will go just to see who doesnt turn up & who does! Its a valid point that the Finleys has a chequered past. It a Valid point that the nominees could or could not be announced. It a valid point that 'bums on seats' and critical acclaim are greater rewards. My valid point is this the night where we come together to appreciate each others work. If it needs changing ...join the ITA and change it in a thoughtful & considerate manner. Egos at the door please.

SkybeTue, 8 Jan 2008, 07:45 am

MLT

Hi Gloria...thank you for the support you have shown to Mandurah Little Theatre. As Secretary of the Mandurah Little Theatre and one of the leads in We Will Rock You - I can confirm that we did not enter this production into the Finleys (nor did we enter Grease). We did however enter our production of the Vagina Monologues (which I was also part of the cast) and receive very positive and constructive feedback from the judges, unfortunately this year we were unsuccessful. The director of Vagina Monos (also director of We Will Rock You and Grease) will not be attending the Finleys nor will I, but only due to the fact we have another performance on this night. Im aware that two (out of the other three) cast members are planning on trying to make it - last time we spoke. Once again thank you for your obvious support and I hope that you continue to enjoy MLT productions. Fingers crossed we will be more successful when entering in the future. Regards Sky

Walter PlingeTue, 8 Jan 2008, 09:37 am

I'd like to congratulate

I'd like to congratulate the ITA for releasing nominations. How exciting, I'm dying to know who wins now!

Gordon the OptomTue, 8 Jan 2008, 11:53 am

Always rubbish?!!

Always rubbish? What a lot of rubbish has been made in some of these pathetic comments.

I recently had the pleasure of having a chat with the all judges of the Finleys, and was extremely impressed with their method of marking, their ideals and their total independence of each other. A wonderful group of dedicated people.

They certainly do not let friendships come in the way of marking.

You can rest assured, that whoever they have chosen for the short lists, and eventually the winners, will be most deserving of their awards.

Supporting the Finleys is supporting the acting profession, the dreams of many and giving encouragement.

Walter PlingeWed, 9 Jan 2008, 04:53 pm

And the Winners are ................

Best Actor: Dean Schulze (Art, Old Mill Theatre) Best Actress: Jacqui Warner (Birthday Party, Grads) Best Musical Theatre Performer: Tamara Woolrych (Eurobeat, Playlovers) Best Director: Pat Stroud (A Hard God, Harbour Theatre) Best Musical Direction: Kimberley Shaw (Eurobeat, Playlovers) Best Newcomer: David Holle (Journey's End, Goldfields Repertory) Best Other Than A Lead - Male: David Gregory (The Birthday Party, GRADS) Best Other Than A Lead - Female: Rosemary Longhurst (Necessary Targets, Old Mill Theatre) Best Costumes: Eurobeat - Playlovers Best Set: Orphans - Old Mill Theatre Best Musical Eurobeat - Playlover Congratulations!

Louisa FitzhardingeWed, 9 Jan 2008, 06:59 pm

KS, are you mocking us? I

KS, are you mocking us? I mean, I highly doubt that someone so involved with the Finley judging that they have access to a "winners list" would do the Finleys such a disservice as to post the list online. --- Louisa Fitzhardinge University Dramatic Society http://uds.asn.au

Walter PlingeWed, 9 Jan 2008, 10:27 pm

Award for choreography

Personally I think an award for choreography is very important and should be reviewed. I speak as a choreographer to those who are not. The hours (days, weeks, months) of time, blood, sweat and tears (literally) that go into a show are huge. Not to mention the expertise of creating an interpretation of story and music. My view is that the choreography is over looked and not recognized for enhancing and creating mood, expression, atmosphere, storyline, visual effect, etc etc etc… The Director is given the words and basic directions to create their vision, the Musical Director is given the music (most times) and does the arrangement. It is not like the choreographer is given the steps and told to put their own slant on it. They have to create. The choreography can make or break a show, particularly the big musicals. (although I have seen a few musicals where the choreography has been limited to a bunch of people doing steps to a rhythm). I’m not trying to minimize what people do or their expertise but it upsets me to be compared to a category such as makeup that comes in the last few weeks. I've worked on a few big shows (the last one being 'We Will Rock You' and yes it wasn't entered in the awards but should have been)and the choreography is hard work and it is not often appreciated or reviewed. Anyway I've had my winge now JennyFer

Walter PlingeThu, 10 Jan 2008, 07:06 am

KS comment

Thank you KS for posting your opinion of who the winners will be. I guess we will have to wait until the night to find out if the judges agree with you. by the way, do you have next weeks winning lotto numbers on hand or would that be a guess too? Kerri

Walter PlingeThu, 10 Jan 2008, 10:22 am

Why don't we have some sort

Why don't we have some sort of poll on here so the average theatre going public can put in their two cents worth on who will win? Now that will create some anticipation and healthy (hopefully not nasty and unhelpful) discussion. Come on people - the arts are already lacking support from the rest of Australian society, we arts lovers should at least support our own from the inside! Lets not get to worked up, eh?

Walter PlingeFri, 11 Jan 2008, 11:46 am

And the winners MIGHT be....

KS? Kimberley Shaw? Is that you, you cheeky scamp? :-p

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