Several Highlanders have proved they are forces to be reckoned with on the stage in recent weeks.

Ariadne Sgouros is currently celebrating a major coup as one of only 24 people selected into the National Institute of Dramatic Arts (NIDA) in 2015.

What is more impressive is that she was selected from about 6000 entries from around the world.

Meanwhile, the Highlands has also shone in the prestigious Canberra Area Theatre (CAT) Awards with 21 nominations in a variety of categories including acting, set and costume design and overall production.

Success in the CAT Awards is not new to the Highlands, but 21 nominations is outstanding with the recognition spread across four groups in the Highlands - Chevalier and Oxley Colleges, SHYAC and newcomer Pigs Fly Productions with what is their first ever show.

Theatre is a huge passion and creative outlet for so many people from all walks of life. It has been a great tradition for many years in the Highlands and clearly is going from strength to strength.

The recent recognition is not only a great compliment to those involved, but highlights the calibre of talent in this area on hand to inspire others who choose to expand their creative horizons.

Each year it seems like Highlands theatre can't possibly get any better, but yet it does.

Well done to all who tread the boards because the achievements of those who have gained recognition this year are enhanced by those around them.