STC honoured for going green

Last night Sydney Theatre Company won two prizes at leading environmental awards, the 2010 Green Globe Awards.

Last night Sydney Theatre Company won two prizes at leading environmental awards, the 2010 Green Globe Awards.

The awards received were:

• The Premier’s Award for Sustainability – the top award for the best overall nominee, as selected by the judging panel.

• “Community Sustainability” – best non-profit organisation who is motivating the community to achieve sustainability goals.

This is a major acknowledgement of Artistic Directors Andrew Upton and Cate Blanchett’s vision to transform the Company’s heritage-listed home, The Wharf, into an international example of 21st century best environmental practice.

The judges believe that Sydney Theatre Company’s Greening the Wharf is an outstanding example of how Australians can help combat climate change, and were impressed by the work:

• to create a practical demonstration of what can be achieved with commitment, analysis and careful planning;

• to be a catalyst of a unique Green Precinct in the Hungry Mile/Barangaroo/Walsh Bay/Rocks area; and

• promoting the Greening project to the Company’s audience as well as the wider community.

Co Artistic Director Andrew Upton said: “It is very gratifying to receive these awards, recognising the hard work of many at Sydney Theatre Company. Greening The Wharf has been made possible through a unique partnership involving philanthropy, corporate support and government funding. Its success shows how much traction there is between the arts and environmental awareness and we’re thrilled to receive this acknowledgement.”

The 2010 Green Globe Award winners were announced at a gala ceremony hosted by the Hon. Frank Sartor MP Minister for Climate Change and the Environment held at NSW Parliament House on Tuesday, July 27.