2024 Brian Boak Bursary Winner Announced

Following a record number of applications The Empire is thrilled to announce Munich-based Australian multidisciplinary performer, lirico-spinto soprano (opera) and actress Christiana Aloneftis as the 2024 recipient of The Empire Foundation’s prestigious Brian Boak Outstanding Performer Bursary.

Due to the unprecedented number of high-level applicants, The Empire Foundation have awarded two additional Brian Boak Supporting Bursaries to opera singer Sarah Prestwidge and actor, writer and producer Charlotte Chimes, who will each receive $5,000 towards their career advancement.

Ms Aloneftis will put her $20,000 bursary towards the completion her two phase professional development project in opera and acting for film and theatre.

“Now as a full-time performing artist pursuing two exceptionally demanding art forms and their challenging industries; film and opera, I feel equipped to manage what comes up ahead,” she said.

“It is a very exciting time for me, a time of endless possibility but also a time of preparedness and a time of intention and creation.”

Ms Aloneftis’ will undertake top-tier industry mentorship with leading interpreter of Italian opera Donata D’Annunzio Lombardi, at Accademia di Alto Perfezionamento Vocale in Rome, which collaborates with Glenn Morton and Sandra Homozi at Manhattan School of Music and Juilliard School in New York.

She will also attend acting short courses at Stella Adler Academy of Acting and Theatre in Los Angeles and Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London as she prepares for an international film release, in which she features alongside an A-list cast.

The Empire Foundation Chair, Janelle Fletcher said the number of applications for this year’s bursary was close to double the expected number.  

“As a result of that interest, and the exceptional calibre of the applicants, The Empire Foundation opted to award funds to two other high achieving candidates,” Ms Fletcher said.

“We look forward to following the progress of all three of our recipients this year as they continue to build their careers in their creative fields.”

Made possible through the generosity of the late Brian Boak, this bursary program provides support to performing artists pursuing study or professional development.

The Empire’s Foundation is proudly supported by Bernoth Properties, Clifford Gouldson Lawyers, Downlands College, DP Wealth Advisory, Greenridge Group, Hot Property, The Arbour Boutique Apartments and Wearing Memories.

For more information regarding the Bursary and previous recipients, visit the Community page at empiretheatre.com.au