WE WON! 🏆

“Tears of joy” – that’s how Artistic Director Michelle Ryan described the moment she heard the news.

Last night, Restless Dance Theatre was awarded the Green Room Award for Outstanding Ensemble for Seeing Through Darkness, presented in 2024 as part of DanceX, curated by The Australian Ballet.

The Green Room Awards Association are Melbourne’s premier peer-presented performing arts awards, recognising excellence across the industry. This marked the first time Restless Dance Theatre has been nominated—and to receive the award is an extraordinary honour. We also extend our congratulations to all fellow nominees and winners.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Green Room Awards panel, and to The Australian Ballet—especially David Hallberg and Alex Wyatt—for their belief in our work and for truly seeing our artists.

Our CEO, Julie Moralee, accepted the award on behalf of the company, acknowledging the remarkable creative team behind Seeing Through Darkness: Artistic Director Michelle Ryan, Associate Artist Larissa McGowan, and the late, great Roz Hervey, whose legacy continues to shape and inspire our work.

“Representing Restless Dance Theatre in Victoria to accept the award alongside such outstanding nominees and peers was a true honour.”
— CEO, Julie Moralee

At the heart of this achievement are our dancers. Their artistry, vulnerability and strength brought Seeing Through Darkness to life, and this award belongs to them.

Fittingly, they are currently in Perth, preparing to premiere Guttered as part of Joondalup Festival. Even in this moment of celebration, they are doing what they do best—creating, performing, and sharing bold new work with audiences.

There are so many people—on stage and behind the scenes—who made this work possible. This award is a reflection of a collective vision, dedication, and belief in the power of inclusive dance.

We are incredibly proud, deeply grateful, and excited for what’s ahead.

Dancers for DanceX season:
Marcus Louend
Poppy Anthoney 
Jianna Georgiou
Sidney Debba
Michael Hodyl
Charlie Wilkins

Creative Team:
Artistic Director Michelle Ryan
Assistant Director Larissa McGowan
Lighting Design Geoff Cobham
Composers Hilary Kleinig & Emily Tulloch
Creative Producer the late great, Roz Hervey
Costume Design Meg Wilson

Photos Shane Reid and Strut Photography