2021 Rebel Wilson Comedy Commission Winner

After careful consideration of a powerful selection of entries, Australian Theatre for Young People (ATYP) and ATYP Ambassador Rebel Wilson are delighted to announce the winner of the 2021 Rebel Wilson Comedy Commission is Sydney-based actor and writer Nikita Waldron.

Waldron is thrilled to be this year’s winner. “It is an incredible opportunity and I am humbled. At the same time, it is so outrageously exciting – I did a little involuntary dance at the gym the moment I found out. Then proceeded to cry/laugh/eat celebratory ice cream when I told my mum, dad and sister respectively. Making people laugh and connect with something meaningful through theatre is my favourite thing to do.”

For the past decade, Waldron has seen Wilson as a source of inspiration. “Rebel never fails to astound me. Her bravery, uniqueness and comedic skills are unparalleled – but what inspires me most about her is that she took a huge chance on herself to get to where she is today. In an industry riddled with rejection and countless reasons to give up, she never did.”

Waldron will spend the next 12 months writing, with dramaturgical support from ATYP, and will be in contact with Rebel Wilson throughout the year to update on her progress. “My goal is to write a fabulous piece of theatre! One that makes the audience laugh, cry and then laugh again – like all my favourite works do…I also can’t wait to refine my craft with the support and guidance of some of our industry’s best creatives and a top-tier dramaturg. And of course, have ample fun along the way!”

ATYP Artistic Director Fraser Corfield says “The Rebel Wilson Comedy Commission has uncovered some extraordinary talent over the past three years. One of the great joys of working at ATYP is getting to meet these young artists who go on to have an impact on our national theatre, film and TV industry. Nikita Waldron has already made her mark as a professional actor. I have no doubt she is also going to launch a writing career through this scholarship.”

Find out more about the Rebel Wilson Comedy Commission.