Ravi Jain Wins Prestigious Siminovitch Prize for Groundbreaking Theatre Work
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Toronto-born Indo-Canadian stage personality Ravi Jain has made history by being named the 2025 Siminovitch Prize Laureate, Canada's top theatre honour. This milestone marks the 25th anniversary of the prestigious award, presented by the Siminovitch Theatre Foundation. Ravi Jain, a renowned director and founder of the Toronto-based Why Not Theatre, received a cash award of CA$ 100,000 and chose Miriam Fernandes as the Siminovitch Prize Protégé. This recognition comes on the heels of his critically acclaimed reimagining of the Indian epic, the Mahabharata, which premiered at the Shaw Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake in the spring of 2023. Jain's ambitious project, which spanned nearly five hours of stage time, was divided into two sections: Karma and Dharma. The production, produced in association with the Barbican of London, was a testament to Jain's commitment to creating inclusive and thought-provoking theatre. His work has been praised for its ability to surprise and push the boundaries of traditional theatre. According to Jury Chair Guillermo Verdecchia, Jain is a creator of remarkable range and audacity, whose career has consistently redefined what Canadian theatre can be. Jain's works are notable for their inclusivity, risk-taking, and ability to inspire alternative visions of existence. As a creator, Jain believes that art is a tool for social change, and his process is driven by a desire to inspire audiences and artists alike to be better listeners, feelers, and people. His dedication to social consciousness and theatrical daring has earned him a reputation as a builder and a leader in the Canadian theatre community. The Siminovitch Prize is awarded annually to exceptional theatre creators and is a celebration of Canadian theatre and an investment in its future. With this recognition, Jain joins an elite group of theatre artists who have received this prestigious honour, cementing his place as a leading figure in Canadian theatre.
