Applications open for John Hirsch Prize (Canada)

Deadline: 5 November 2025

The Canada Council for the Arts is excited to invite applications for its John Hirsch Prize to recognize the artistic merit and potential of emerging theatre directors.

Prize Information

Two prizes of $6,000 may be awarded, one in each of the English-language and French-language competitions.

Eligibility Criteria

This is a prize for emerging theatre directors. There is no age restriction for this prize. Individuals with no more than 10 years of experience as a professional theatre director working in any language can apply. The 10-year period is calculated from the application deadline date. Your application should demonstrate a history of professional theatre direction.
You must also be a Canadian citizen or have permanent resident status, as defined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. You do not need to be living in Canada.
You must also meet the Canada Council’s definition of a professional artist, which is an artist who:
- has specialized training in the artistic field of practice (not necessarily in academic institutions)
- is recognized as such by peers (artists working in the same artistic tradition)
- is committed to devoting more time to artistic activity, as financially possible
- has a history of public presentation.

Assessment Criteria

Your application will be evaluated based on the following criteria, which refer specifically to your work and career as a theatre director:
- Merit:
  - Your accomplishments as a director
  - The artistic quality of your work as a director
  - The clarity of your artistic vision
- Impact:
  - The potential of the prize to contribute to your artistic development as a theatre director
  - Your contribution towards a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive artistic ecosystem.