A record number of nominations have been received for the 2025 NT Performing Arts Awards, with this year's finalists reflecting the Northern Territory's strength in music and performance.
Among this year's finalists are Yolŋu songman, Rrawun Maymuru, Marranunggu hip-hop artist Levi Nichaloff aka YUNG MILLA and Mulga Bore musician Alvin Manfong.
Mr Maymuru, from Yirrkala in North East Arnhem Land, is a finalist for Performer of the Year.
He told National Indigenous Times the recognition highlights the growing reach of Yolŋu talent.
"Being recognised by the NT creative industry is manymuk (good/great)," he said.
"It puts a spotlight on the ever growing talent we Yolŋu people have, talent that travels and performs all over the world."
Mr Maymuru's work blends Yolŋu Matha and English, carrying cultural story through both traditional and contemporary forms.
Yung Milla is a finalist for the Young Achiever Award.
He said the recognition reflects both his music and his work with young people.
"Being named a finalist for the Young Achiever means a lot to me," he said.
"I've been grinding hard in music, building my sound, and putting in work for my community, so to be recognised like this feels unreal.
"It shows that everything I'm doing is bigger than just the music it's about representing where I'm from and showing the young ones that anything is possible."
His performances, mentoring and workshops continue to support youth across the NT.
Mulga Bore musician Alvin Manfong, founder of Mulga Bore Hard Rock, is also a finalist.
His family band performs in English and Akaye language, combining a glam-rock style with stories from his community while taking remote Central Australian music to major national stages.
His work has helped inspire young musicians in Mulga Bore and beyond.
Winners will be announced at a red-carpet ceremony at Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre (GYRACC) in Katherine on 18 November, marking the first time the event will be held in the Big Rivers region.
NT Performing Arts Awards finalists
People's Choice Award
Lisa Pellegrino, We Keep Everything, Antony Sinni: Troppo Italia
Production of the Year
Antidote - Tracks Dance, Fair Punishment - Business Unusual, Gapu Ngupan (Chasing the Rainbow)
Performer of the Year
Lisa Pellegrino, Erin Selleck, Antony Sinni, Rrawun Maymuru
Young Achiever Award
Levi Nichaloff - Yung Milla, Kesh Fernandez, Alvin Manfong
Behind the Scenes - Creative
James Mangohig, Matthew Cunliffe, Lisa Pellegrino
Behind the Scenes - Production
Matthew Cunliffe, Dominic Poulson, Benjamin Erin
Inspiring Educator
Lynne Hanton, Abigail Hatton, Dan McAleer
Impact Award
Kate Stephens - DSO, Fringe Festival, Madeleine and Frankie, Krenek and Snowdon - Guts Dance
Ultimate Legend Award
Lynne Hanton, Kate Stephens, David McMiken
