Yesterday NIDA graduate and Oscar nominee Michael Wilkinson was the guest speaker at the National Institute of Dramatic Art graduation ceremony for the class of 2014.
The 59 talented graduates from the Acting, Directing, Writing for Performance, Design, Production, Costume and Properties courses received their degrees and celebrated their achievements.
Following NIDA’s tradition of honouring leaders in the arts and creative industries at each graduation ceremony, NIDA acknowledged the contributions of Michael Wilkinson and Ken Healey AM.
Healey helped nurture several generations of NIDA graduates during his two-decade tenure as a lecturer in theatre history and playwriting.
Wilkinson is one of Australia’s and the world’s most acclaimed costume designers and has contributed his creativity to some of the most successful films, including American Hustle, Babel and The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn. He is also an innovator in his field, having just launched a unique company, WilkinsonMartin, providing design services in the space where film and fashion meet.
The students were very excited to hear from Wilkinson as he delivered his address and shared invaluable lessons from his successful career.
Wilkinson said it was a great pleasure to be invited to celebrate such a special occasion at NIDA.
“NIDA was a wonderful launching pad for me, instilling a strong work ethic and the skills to kick-start my career and follow my dreams all the way to Hollywood. With such a solid foundation of training, I’m sure this group of students will go on to achieve great things and inspire those around them,” commented Wilkinson.
