Four designers, including four-time nominee, make Siminovitch prize short list

TORONTO – Four designers — two from Montreal, one in Toronto and a Winnipeg native — have made the short list for this year’s $100,000 Siminovitch Prize in Theatre.

The list includes Montreal’s Anick La Bissonniere, who was also a finalist in 2006, 2009 and 2012.

She’s a trained architect who’s worked with many acclaimed directors and is known for bringing a “sophisticated sculptural beauty to her set designs,” said a statement.

Bretta Gerecke, who grew up in Winnipeg and is based in Edmonton and London, is on the short list for a third time after being a finalist in 2006 and 2009.

Her work has been seen on high-profile platforms including Cirque du Soleil and the Stratford Festival.

First-time nominee Trevor Schwellnus of Toronto was praised for creating “outstanding visual effects with minimal resources.”

And first-time finalist Nancy Tobin of Montreal made the cut for her “innovative and original approach to sound design.”

Now into its 15th year, the prize recognizes a body of work in design, direction and play writing in three-year cycles.

Winners receive $75,000 for themselves, while $25,000 goes to a protege of their choice.

This year’s jury includes chair Bob White, Philip Akin, Gideon Arthurs, Genevieve Blais and Kim Collier.

Actress Fiona Reid will host the awards ceremony on Oct. 18 in Toronto.