The prestigious Siminovitch Prize for mid-career artists in the theatre industry is undergoing exciting changes, with a significant increase in prize money. The main award has been raised to $100,000 from $75,000, while each of the three finalists will now receive $10,000, doubling the previous amount.
In a significant shift, this year the prize has been opened up to theatre creators from all areas of the industry, departing from its usual focus on theatre design, direction, and playwriting.
As the Siminovitch Prize marks its 25th anniversary, organizers are considering the possibility of making these changes permanent. The finalists will be unveiled on October 2, with the winner being announced on December 1.
The enhanced top prize has been made possible by generous financial backing from the National Arts Centre English Theatre for one year, and an additional three-year commitment from The William and Nona Heaslip Foundation.
Furthermore, the three-year contribution from the Power Corporation of Canada, the presenter of the Siminovitch Prize shortlist, has enabled the doubling of the finalists’ prize money.
In addition to the main awards, there is a $25,000 prize for a protégé chosen by the winner, as well as a $5,000 grant each for three emerging artists selected by the finalists.