The Equity Foundation is delighted to announce that legendary actor, dancer, singer, choreographer and director Nancye Hayes AM is the recipient of the prestigious 2025 Equity Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by Media Super.
With a career spanning more than six decades, Nancye Hayes has been a cornerstone of Australian entertainment, gracing the stage and screen with her remarkable talent, dedication, and versatility. Beginning as a dancer in JC Williamson’s My Fair Lady in 1961, she quickly established herself as one of the first Australian leading performers in musical theatre, with her acclaimed ‘Charity’ in the iconic 1967 production of Sweet Charity. Other successes such as A Little Night Music, Pippin, Irene, Annie, Chicago, Sweeney Todd, Guys & Dolls, 42nd Street and Nine followed, alongside acting roles in new Australian works, some written especially for her. Her performances have captivated audiences, setting a standard of excellence in the industry. Currently performing on stage at the Sydney Theatre Company, Nancye remains one of our most beloved entertainers.
Beyond her work as a performer, Nancye has been a mentor, director, and advocate for the arts, fostering the next generation of performers and championing the importance of Australian storytelling. She has been a proud member of her union since 1961.
MEAA Equity president Jason Klarwein says: “Nancye Hayes’ commitment to the craft, her generosity of spirit, and her unwavering support for the performing arts community make her a most deserving recipient of this honour.”
Nancye was nominated by Australian performers and chosen by members of the National Performers’ Committee.
“We felt strongly Nancye epitomises this award and why it was established,” says Jason. “Her grace, integrity, kindness and loyalty to our community are legendary. The depth and breadth of her career includes ground-breaking performances at a time when professional stage roles for Australians were incredibly limited. This award is a testament to her extraordinary legacy.”
On receiving this honour from her peers, Nancye says: “In a career that has given me both opportunity and fulfilment, it is a great privilege to have it acknowledged by this award from my fellow actors.”
The Equity Lifetime Achievement Award was established in 2009 to honour the achievements of leading Australian performers who have had a distinguished career and been an inspiration to other Australian performers. Past recipients include Bruce Spence, Maggie Dence, Peter Carroll, Bob Hornery, Jill Perryman, Ron Haddrick, Kevan Johnston, Toni Lamond AM, Grant Page, Anne Phelan, Noeline Brown, Julia Blake, Terry Norris, Lillian Crombie, Ningali Lawford-Wolf, John Bell, Anna Volska and Chris Anderson.
The 2025 Equity Lifetime Achievement Award is proudly supported by Media Super. Nancye will receive her award at a ceremony at the Sydney Theatre Company in June.
