The National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) has announced two new board members to its Foundation Trust – Antonia O’Neill and James Marshall, and the promotion of Darren Dale to deputy chair.
New NIDA Deputy Chair, Darren Dale, is the managing director of First Nations-owned production company Blackfella Films which has produced many award-winning and acclaimed series including Total Control, First Australians and Redfern Now. He is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences, board chair of the Sydney Film Festival and the Sydney Festival and in 2024 joined the Board of Screen Australia. He was previously on the board of Screen NSW, the Council of the Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS), Australian Centre for Moving Image (ACMI) and the Australian Film Institute (AFI). In 2012, he was the recipient of the prestigious AFTRS Honorary Degree.
Darren has been a NIDA board member since July 2022 and on being appointed deputy chair of NIDA he said: ‘It is a great honour to serve such an esteemed institution as NIDA in the role of deputy chair. NIDA is a training institution of global renown and I look forward to supporting its aims and ambitions as it prepares future generations of creative talent to step onto the world stage.’
NIDA Chair, Catherine West, welcomed Darren to the new role saying: ‘NIDA is privileged that Darren, who has served on the board since 2022, has been appointed to deputy chairman. Darren’s extensive arts and entertainment industry knowledge along with his award-winning production career across film and television already contributes greatly to the board and we look forward to more of his generous insight and valuable support along with fellow Deputy Chair , The Hon Richard Refshauge SC, in this dual role.’
Antonia O’Neill has over 25 years of experience in corporate communications and project management and is currently chief of staff to Harvey Norman CEO Katie Page. For over ten years her role has included responsibility for the company’s advocacy for increased profile and investment in Australian women’s sport and education, as well as recognition of the contribution of women in rural and regional Australia. Previously, she was the founder and director of a specialist communications agency, advising clients across banking, retail, media, and sport. Antonia has a Bachelor of Economics from the University of Sydney and has been a member of the Ascham School Ltd Board since 2022.
James Marshall is managing director of Marprop which he founded in late 2007 following 15 years’ experience in commercial property markets in Australia, commencing in property development and then commercial investment sales and funds and investment management. James is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and is director and responsible manager of Marprop Financial Services Pty Ltd. Prior to founding Marprop, James gained experience in roles as an executive and director with Savills, Chesterton International, Project Control Group and Divome.
NIDA Foundation Trust Chair, Peter Ivany, said: ‘We welcome Antonia O’Neill and James Marshall to the NIDA Foundation Trust. They are both passionate supporters of the creative industries and very successful business people who will bring valuable experience, knowledge and community connection to our board.’
