Success follows U of L playwrights

When the 2012 University of Lethbridge Play Right Prize jury dubbed this year's submissions as some of the best yet, they weren't exaggerating. All three winners continue to be recognized for their prize-winning entries.

"Playwriting is thriving on the U of L campus, and the Play Right Prize is surely a key contributor to this vibrant environment," says Nicholas Hanson, associate professor of dramatic arts.

In February, Makambe Simamba (dramatic arts major) won first prize for her play MUD, which speaks to contemporary Canadian issues in a powerful and poetic way.

Second prize went to Chelsea Woolley (history/education) for her script 1000 Names, with rich and vivid characters and timeless, potent themes.

Third place went to Cole Olson (dramatic arts/education) for his play Patriarch, which takes a personal and intimate approach to classic family drama.

Recognition of all three plays continues. Recently, the Alberta Playwrights' Network announced the results of the 46th Annual Playwriting Competition where Simamba's MUD received the Discovery Prize for emerging playwrights. Woolley also earned a honourable mention in the same category for 1000 Names.

These budding playwrights are also finding opportunities to show off their work. Woolley's play is being produced by TheatreXtra in the 2012-2013 season, while Olson's Patriarch received a public reading during the 2012 Pretty, Witty & Gay Festival in Lethbridge.

For more information on the Alberta Playwright awards visit: www.albertaplaywrights.com