Professor Victor Emeljanow is the winner of this year's City of Newcastle Drama Award (CONDA) for Best Professional Director.

From the School of Drama, Fine Art and Music (incorporating the Conservatorium), Professor Emeljanow won the award for his work on the 2008 production of Samuel Beckett's 'Waiting for Godot'.

'Waiting for Godot' as performed by the Popular Theatre Company also won the CONDA for Best Professional Production.

Professor Emeljanow said he was thrilled to win the award and to have been invited to direct the young cast, which included current and past students.

"It's an honour to receive an award that celebrates achievements in the performing arts and recognises contributions to the community's cultural life," Professor Emeljanow said.