Johanna Metcalf
Performing Arts

The 2021 Johanna Metcalf Performing Arts Prizes/Les Prix Johanna-Metcalf des Arts de la scène 2021

Celebrating Ontario’s leading creators in the performing arts

The Johanna Metcalf Performing Arts Prizes/Les Prix Johanna-Metcalf des Arts de la scène (Johannas) celebrate artists in Ontario who have made a recognized impact on the field and the public, and show great promise in the ongoing pursuit of their ambitious and visionary practices. Established in 2019 and named in honour of Johanna Metcalf — who was at the heart of the Metcalf Foundation’s work for over 40 years — the biennial prizes amplify her legacy as a passionate supporter of the arts and artists, and is delivered in partnership with the Ontario Arts Council.

The winners of the 2021 Johannas were: Ian Cusson, composer; iskwē, musician; Ravi Jain, theatre director; Sandra Laronde, multidisciplinary artist; and Marilo Nuñez, theatre director and playwright. Each winner received $25,000 and named a protégé as a way of celebrating early career artists who are showing formidable promise.

The five protégés were: Beverley McKiver, composer (protégé of Ian Cusson); Zeegwon “Zee” Shilling, musician (iskwē); Aaron Jan, theatre director (Ravi Jain); Aria Evans, interdisciplinary artist (Sandra Laronde); and Margarita Valderrama, actor and playwright (Marilo Nuñez). Protégés were awarded $10,000 each, a $5,000 increase from the inaugural prize year in appreciation of the particular challenges faced by artists growing into their careers over these last two years. The total value of the prizes was $175,000.

2023 Johannas | 2019 Johannas

Being awarded a Johanna opened doors and propelled my theatre work to the next level. It was a fantastic burst of encouragement at a time when I needed it — a “keep going” in an industry full of “just give ups.” The prize money helped me take some artistic risks, which have truly paid off.

Sunny Drake

2019 Johanna Winner

The last two years have been an unimaginable period for the arts and artists. We are delighted by this opportunity, once again, to celebrate some truly remarkable artists. While we are still in the midst of regaining our footing in many respects, we hope this can be a moment of inspiration and optimism for what lies ahead. Let’s continue to seek, as Johanna always did, truths and transformations in the magic of theatre, music, and dance.

Kirsten Hanson

Chair, Metcalf Foundation

2021 Winners

2021 Protégés

2021 Finalists

Highlights

2021 Johannas Showcase

More
Celebrating the 2021 Johannas
Metcalf Foundation Announces Five Winners for the 2021 Johanna Metcalf Performing Arts Prizes/Les Prix Johanna-Metcalf des Arts de la scène
Metcalf Foundation Announces 15 Finalists for the 2021 Johanna Metcalf Performing Arts Prizes/Les Prix Johanna-Metcalf des Arts de la scène
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