Toronto’s 19th annual SummerWorks Theatre Festival wrapped up the most successful year to date last night with an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding artistic achievements at the Factory Theatre Courtyard. With several new initiatives, artists from all disciplines and across Canada, SummerWorks is firmly planting its roots as the most influential and loved arts festival in the country. Festival turnout increased by 34% and the Music Series nearly doubled in attendance from last year.
SummerWorks Prize for Outstanding Production
The prize is a free trip back to the festival next year. All companies presenting new work were eligible.
Greenland by Nicolas Billon, directed by Ravi Jain
Contra Guys Award for Outstanding New Play
Generously supported by two SummerWorks founders, Benj Gallander and Ben Stadelmann, the cash award is presented to the playwright with the best new script in the festival.
Say Nothing Saw Wood by Joel Thomas Hynes
Award for Direction (Sponsored by Crow’s Theatre)
Cash prize awarded for outstanding direction at the festival.
Alan Dilworth for The Middle Place
Honourable Mention: Rosa Laborde for Melancholy Play
The Spotlight Award
Awarded to a featured performer in a SummerWorks show. The winner receives a VIP pass to the festival next year.
Jordan Tannahill, Amelia Sargisson, Marika Schwandt, Tawiah M’carthy and Rebecca Powell for The Art of Catching Pigeons by Torchlight
Andrea Donaldson for Montparnasse
The Steamwhistle Emerging Artist Award
Awarded to an artist early in their career who made an artistic impression during the festival.
Akosua Amo-Adem for The Middle Place
RBC Arts Professional Award
A new award at the festival this year, which recognizes the work, craft and dedication of an emerging arts professional. This award is made possible with the support of RBC.
Matt Baram, Ronald Pederson, and Naomi Snieckus for Impromptu Splendor
The NOW Magazine Audience Choice Award
Audience members voted by placing their ticket stub in the NOW Audience Choice box before leaving the theatre. The Winner receives $1500 in free advertising with NOW magazine. All shows were eligible for this prize.
Greenland by Nicolas Billon, directed by Ravi Jain
