The Reg Skene Award for Emerging Theatre Artist was awarded to playwright Kevin Klassen at last Friday's Masquerade.
Kevin is known to the Winnipeg theatre community as an actor, director, and artistic co-chair of Shakespeare in the Ruins, but it was for his accomplishments as an emerging playwright that he was recognized with the first annual Reg Skene Award, presented by Reg's son Rick Skene.
The Skene Award will be given out each year, in celebration of a promising playwright, actor, or director.
“Reg Skene is an institution in the Winnipeg theatre scene. He taught so many of our artists and is one of the most well-loved members of our community, “said Rory Runnells, Artistic Director of the Manitoba Association of Playwrights. “Reg has been deeply dedicated to the development of emerging talent throughout his career. We wanted to honour his work and legacy.”
Reg Skene grew the University of Winnipeg’s theatre department from one course offered in 1965 to a four- year honours program with its own theatre complex and production facilities. Over the years, Reg taught many students who remained in Winnipeg, became established theatre artists, and helped form the core of today’s Winnipeg’s theatre community.
