Stars of the Australian stage and screen, prominent NIDA alumni, Sydney fashion identities and industry representatives were among the almost 300 guests at NIDA’s annual Foundation Trust fundraising Gala, held last night (Saturday 21 July) at the National Institute of Dramatic Art in Kensington.

NIDA acting graduates Sarah Snook (Not Suitable for Children, Spirited), Ryan Corr (Not Suitable for Children, Packed to the Rafters), Miranda Tapsell (The Sapphires), Andrea Demetriades (Sydney Theatre Company’s Pygmalion, Crownies), Hugo Johnstone-Burt (Cloudstreet, Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries), Benedict Samuel (Home and Away), Arianwen Parkes-Lockwood (Home and Away, A Place to Call Home), Susie Porter (Bikie Wars, Puberty Blues, Dangerous Remedy) and Vanessa Gray (Rescue Special Ops, The Strip) attended the Gala.

Other guests included: actors Dan Wylie, Emma Lung, Elizabeth Debicki, Angus Sampson and Sophie Low; fashion figures Edwina McCann (editor of Vogue), Gracie Otto, designers Josh Goot (Josh Goot) and Sarah-Jane Clarke (Sass & Bide), stylist Romy Frydman, Nick Smith (editor of GQ), Elizabeth Renkert (editor of Madison); dancers Charles Thompson and Robyn Hendricks from the Australian Ballet; and representatives from the Seven Network, Icon Films, Dendy Cinemas and Showtime.

In keeping with the inspiration for the evening - ‘Trip the Light Fantastic!’ - NIDA’s foyer was transformed with light and colour to provide a spectacular backdrop for the event, which featured a menu by Matt Moran of ARIA restaurant, beverages from Tempus Two and Little Creatures, and entertainment provided by NIDA’s acting students.

Two lucky guests took home a spectacular diamond ring and a serpent bag both generously donated by Bvlgari for the luxury raffle. Other fundraising on the night included pledge items and a live auction.

With support from NIDA’s Principle Partner the SEVEN Network, the NIDA Foundation Trust’s annual fundraising dinners have raised close to $700,000 over the last six years to support NIDA student projects and other opportunities for the creative development of emerging Australian talent.