FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

29 July 2008

Australia's "Theatre Oscars" for Festival 08 shows

In a glittering ceremony last night, two of Edinburgh International Festival's forthcoming highlights acquired "must-see status" as they grabbed a handful of awards at the prestigious Helpmann Awards in Australia.

Chunky Move's dance and special effects extravaganza Mortal Engine won Best Visual or Physical Theatre Production; whilst the show's predecessor Glow, won both the accolade of Best Ballet or Dance Work and a Best Female Dancer award for Sara Black. Sara also stars in Mortal Engine and will be appearing in Edinburgh for the works' European Premiere.

Mortal Engine uses pioneering laser and video technology to create a shimmering pas de deux between man and machine; person and projection. The dancers trigger light patterns and sounds to create a fast-paced, breathtaking, innovative spectacle.

Meanwhile Barrie Kosky won Best Original Score for his work The Tell Tale Heart. Following the triumph of Kosky's Poppea in Festival 07, this adaptation of the Edgar Allan Poe story is gothic, dark and sizzling with ideas.

Both Australian companies appear at Edinburgh International Festival 08. Chunky Move's Mortal Engine premieres at the Edinburgh Playhouse from 17-19 August. The Tell Tale Heart performs at the Royal Lyceum Theatre from 9-11 August. For tickets: 0131 473 2000 or www.eif.co.uk

The annual Helpmann Awards recognise distinguished artistic achievement and excellence in the many disciplines of Australia's vibrant live performance sectors, including musical theatre, contemporary music, comedy, opera, classical music, dance and physical theatre.

Edinburgh International Festival 8 - 31 August 2008

For more information please visit www.eif.co.uk