This annual opportunity is open to musical theatre artists under 30 years of age who are under-exposed in Toronto and its surrounding areas. The Syd & Shirley Banks Prize for Emerging Musical Theatre Artists generously provides two musical theatre artists the opportunity to advance their careers through financial assistance, mentorship, and increased exposure.
The 2019-20 Banks Prize winners:
The Prize
The Prize
Two emerging artists are awarded the prize through an annual open audition process, each winner receiving:
1. A $1,000 cash prize.
2. A cabaret created by and starring both winners.
3. An opportunity to perform alongside leading professional artists as a part of The Musical Stage Company’s season.
4. Mentorship with industry experts throughout the 2019-20 season.
2020 Showcase
Tickets are now on sale for the 2020 Banks Prize cabaret, starring Kale Penny and Eva Foote!
Catch “The World Is Folked” on stage, March 1 & 2.
Eligibility
Who is Eligible?
All musical theatre artists are eligible if they meet the following criteria:
- They are under 30 years of age
- They reside in Ontario
- They are under-exposed in theatre in Toronto & GTA
We are actively seeking submissions from actors of all backgrounds, abilities, and ethnicities and we are committed to diversity and inclusion within this submission process.
Both Equity and non-equity individuals are eligible to submit.
Submissions
Submissions
Audition information for the 2020-21 Syd & Shirley Banks Prize for Emerging Musical Theatre Artists will be released in Spring 2020.
If you have any questions about this process or would like to stay in the loop, please send an email to our Associate Producer, Robyn Hoja, at robyn@musicalstagecompany.com.
Past Recipients
Past Recipients
2018-19: Brandon Antonio & Michelle Bouey
2017-18: George Krissa & Celine Tsai
2016-17: Jahlen Barnes & Arinea Hermans
2015-16: Brittany Banks and Colin Simmons
2014-15: Alessia Lupiano and Graham Scott Fleming
2013-14: Dana Jean Phoenix and Jordan Till
2012-13: Alexis Gordon and Andres Sierra
Leading Lights
The Banks Family