Navigating The Audit With Calm And Clarity: How McLean Delmo Bentleys Supports The National Theatre

About the National Theatre:

Located in St Kilda, Melbourne, the National Theatre is a vibrant performing arts venue encompassing the National Theatre, a studio theatre, and six training and rehearsal studios where the National Ballet School and the National Drama School train. As a not-for-profit organisation, the National Theatre contributes to Victoria’s art and culture through its performances, training for dancers and actors, and employment of arts professionals.

Sarah Hunt is the CEO of the National Theatre and has been in the role since 2020.

Initial challenge

While the National Theatre is a thriving arts organisation with a strong history dating back to the inception of the drama school in 1936, the years 2020 and 2021 were particularly challenging. During the pandemic, the National Theatre had to close, and all of its teaching had to transition to online. The impact on staff and students was enormous. The disruption caused by the pandemic caused some highly skilled and valued employees to leave the sector.

Our solution

Throughout these challenging times, McLean Delmo Bentleys provided much-needed continuity and support. Their deep understanding of the National Theatre’s operations allowed them to deliver rigorous and insightful audit services. By asking questions and respectfully collaborating during audits, they helped us to meet our financial reporting requirements and also navigate the financial reporting challenges facing the not-for-profit sector.

Results

McLean Delmo Bentleys’ insights and knowledge has enabled the National Theatre to operate more efficiently. My team felt respected and appreciated the responsive delivery of audit services and clear communication with the Audit and Risk Committee, broader Leadership Team, and Board.

The audit is a very efficient process, and the team go above and beyond.

They present with clarity to my team and Board.