Ravi Jain, the founder of Why Not Theatre, has been awarded Canada’s prestigious Siminovitch Prize, recognized as the country’s top theatre award. This announcement was made at a ceremony held in Toronto on December 1, 2025, where Jain received a substantial prize of $100,000 for his remarkable contributions to the theatrical landscape.
The jury lauded Jain for his commitment to inclusivity and his innovative approach to theatre. His work has been credited with "reshaping the ecosystem around him," showcasing a dedication to diverse representation in the arts. Jain's artistic repertoire includes notable productions such as "Prince Hamlet," a bilingual reimagining of Shakespeare that integrates American Sign Language (ASL) and English, and the ambitious two-part adaptation of the "Mahabharata," which draws from a 4,000-year-old Sanskrit epic.
In a gesture of mentorship that aligns with the ethos of the Siminovitch Prize, Jain selected Miriam Fernandes, a co-creator of the "Mahabharata," as his protege. With this designation, Fernandes will receive a $25,000 award, reflecting Jain's commitment to fostering new talent in the field of theatre.
This year marks a significant milestone as it is the 25th edition of the Siminovitch Prize. For this special occasion, the prize's traditional three-year cycle for nominations from specific categories—designers, directors, or playwrights—was paused, allowing for open nominations across all fields, including those outside the conventional boundaries of theatre. In conjunction with this inclusive approach, the prize purse was also increased from $75,000 to $100,000, emphasizing the award's growing significance in the Canadian arts community.
Jain’s recognition through this prize not only highlights his individual achievements but also shines a spotlight on the ongoing evolution of Canadian theatre. His focus on collaborative and inclusive practices serves as an inspiration for emerging artists and reinforces the importance of diversity in creative expressions.
Overall, the awarding of the Siminovitch Prize to Ravi Jain marks not only a personal triumph for the artist but also a celebration of a transformative moment in the theatre industry, encouraging future generations to embrace inclusivity and innovation.
