NIDA board roles for Blackfella Films’ Darren Dale and Bunya’s Sophia Zachariou

The National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) board of directors has announced the appointment of two new board members.

Darren Dale has been a director of Blackfella Films since 2000. He has produced many award-winning documentary, factual and drama programs. Dale is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences and currently serves on the board of ACMI, the Sydney Film Festival and the Sydney Festival. In 2012 he was the recipient of the AFTRS Honorary Degree.

Sophia Zachariou is the CEO of Bunya Entertainment. Previously as Create NSW director of Screen Investment, Engagement and Attraction, Zachariou led the screen program and prior to that was deputy head of entertainment at the ABC. She is a passionate advocate for the emerging sector and has championed many new creative voices from under-represented groups during her entire career.

NIDA chair Noel Staunton said: "We are delighted that Darren and Sophia have joined the NIDA board and are thrilled to have the deep experience and expertise they bring.

“Darren’s passion for Australian storytelling and producing, his stellar industry reputation and expansive connections will add great value to NIDA. Sophia’s dynamic and prolific work, alongside her extensive screen industry knowledge will be an incredible asset to the NIDA board."

Darren Dale said: "NIDA is an iconic performing arts educator whose graduates have left indelible marks on stage and screen globally. As a screen producer, I am indebted to the exceptional work of so many NIDA alumni and it’s an honour to be able to make a strategic contribution to its future growth and success."

Sophia Zachariou added: "NIDA has been the home of creative excellence for over 60 years and to be part of this national institution as it forges new partnerships and collaborations within our industry is an exciting challenge and one which I’m completely up for."

The Board of Directors also extends their great thanks for the excellent contribution over many years from Justin Ryan, Sandra Phillips and Ian Collie who have stepped down from the NIDA Board over the last year.