Here’s arts editor HELEN MUSA‘s latest arts news – today’s “Artsday” column.

NATIONAL Gallery of Australia director Nick Mitzevich will launch the NGA’s touring exhibition, “Spowers and Syme”, celebrating the artistic friendship of Melbourne artists Ethel Spowers and Eveline Syme, at Canberra Museum and Gallery this Thursday, August 12, then the show continues until November 20.

SHAKESPEARE’S “Hamlet” as reimagined by playwright Tom Stoppard in “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead” is coming to REP, directed by Cate Clelland in her 12th directorial role with the company. Canberra REP Theatre, 3 Repertory Lane, Acton, August 12-28. Book here or 6257 1950.

MEMBERS of the public can view finalists’ work in the in the 2021 ANU School of Art & Design People’s Choice Award at the school’s Gallery until September 3 and vote online here until August 26.

FIVE 2022 residencies are on offer at Megalo Print Studio for artists currently based in Australia, who will receive a $2,000 stipend, and four weeks’ full access to Megalo’s professional printmaking facilities. A month’s accommodation at Cargills Cottage will also be made available to residents from outside the ACT. Residents will receive free membership with PhotoAccess, with access to film developing, darkroom and digital making spaces, support and mentorship. Applications will close here on September 30.

THREE outstanding young students from the studio of Elena Nikulina will play inspirational piano works featuring music by Bach, Haydn, Chopin, Grieg and Sibelius in this week’s Lunchtime series. Wesley Music Centre, Forrest, 12.40pm-1.20pm, Wednesday, August 11. Book here or 6232 7248.

THE Nature Conservancy Australia’s photo contest is now open, with more than $16,000 worth of prizes. Australian photographers Adrian Alford, Christian Fletcher, Ben Goode and Sean Scott will select the best pictures across four categories: People and Nature, Landscapes, Wildlife, and Water. Photographers can submit as many entries as they want here by August 31.

CANCELLED: “Once” the musical, scheduled to open at the Canberra Theatre in August, is not proceeding. Ticket holders have been contacted but queries to [email protected] or 6275 2700.

News all day, every day at CityNews.com.au.