Neroli Sweetman - Production Mentor & Assistant

Neroli began her theatrical journey at the age of 12 and has since built a remarkable and enduring career in the performing arts. Over the decades, she has become a beloved figure in the Perth theatre community, celebrated for her talents both on stage and behind the scenes.

As a performer, Neroli has starred in some of musical theatre’s most iconic roles, including Mrs Anna in The King and I and Maria in The Sound of Music. Her performances have captivated audiences and earned her the admiration of fellow Perth artists across generations.

Her directing career began in the early 2000s and has grown steadily over the years. She has led numerous successful productions, including Fiddler on the Roof (2010, Old Mill Theatre), Camelot (2018, Old Mill Theatre), Peter Pan (2023, Koorliny Arts Centre), and most recently, The Sound of Music (2024, Melville Theatre Company). Her directorial style is known for its heart, clarity, and deep respect for storytelling.

Neroli is best known within the Bel Canto Performing Arts community as “Nanna,” a cherished mentor, creative guide, and constant support. She brings her wealth of experience to every production, offering assistance with direction, costuming, props, and front-of-house operations. Her quiet leadership and steady presence are felt in every detail of the company’s work.

With a career spanning many eras of community and musical theatre, Neroli remains an irreplaceable part of Bel Canto’s creative family, the heart and soul behind the scenes, and a true inspiration to all who work alongside her. In recognition of her decades of dedication, passion, and outstanding service to Western Australian community theatre, she was recently inducted into the Independent Theatre Association’s Hall of Fame, a fitting honour for a life devoted to the stage.