Spotlight shines on backstage star

STALWART of the local theatre community Cathy Heenan has been honoured for her long-time dedication to the city’s performing arts scene.

Ms Heenan has received the annual Ballarat Arts Foundation Denis Bateman Award, which BAF chair Paula Nicholson said is a celebration of her “tireless” volunteer work backstage, particularly in the amateur theatre space, since she was a teenager.

“Cathy has produced amazing make-up looks for countless cast members in many local productions,” Ms Nicholson said.

For more than 30 years, Ms Heenan has not only helped performers look great on stage, but has trained young people in how to apply make-up along the way.

Many of her former helpers continue to work in beauty, whether as therapists, or make-up artists for stage and screen.

Not just a familiar face behind the scenes, Ms Heenan is also recognisable to theatregoers, having worked in the box office of the Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts.

Ms Nicholson said recipients of the Denis Bateman Award are usually volunteers who have given much of their time to various community groups, and who encourage artists to thrive, especially those up-and-coming.

“The Denis Bateman Award exists to honour an individual who has made a long-term commitment to the local arts Community,” Ms Nicholson said.

“It serves as a reflection of the dedication of the Rotary Club of Ballarat South to the local community, and celebrates the legacy of Denis Bateman, former Rotary president and key stakeholder in the development of BAF in the year 2000.”

Former awardees since 2010 include Graeme Vendy, Val Sarah, Michael Whitehead, and Beverley Horwood.