Ravi Jain Wins Canada’s Prestigious Siminovitch Prize for Groundbreaking Theatre Work

Toronto-born theatre artist Ravi Jain has won Canada’s top stage honor. He was named the 2025 Siminovitch Prize Laureate on Monday. The award is presented by the Siminovitch Theatre Foundation.

Jain is a director, writer, and the founder of Why Not Theatre. He received a cash award of CA$100,000. He also named Miriam Fernandes as the prize’s protégé.

A Celebration of Artistic Risk and Inclusive Storytelling

The Siminovitch Prize is a major Canadian arts award. It celebrates exceptional theatre creators. According to the foundation, it is an investment in the future of the art form.

Jury Chair Guillermo Verdecchia praised Jain’s remarkable career. He said Jain consistently redefines Canadian theatre. His work blends theatrical daring with strong social consciousness.

Jain’s projects are known for their inclusivity and risk-taking. He creates processes that inspire alternative visions of existence. Jain stated that art is a vital tool for social change.

Epic Mahabharata Adaptation Garners Widespread Acclaim

A key highlight of Jain’s recent work is his adaptation of the Mahabharata. The reimagined epic premiered in spring 2023 at Ontario’s Shaw Festival. It was produced with London’s Barbican centre.

Jain co-wrote and directed the ambitious production. The performance was split into two parts titled “Karma” and “Dharma.” Together, they spanned nearly five hours on stage.

The production aimed to balance respect for the original material with contemporary values. This careful approach was noted by Jain in earlier statements. The play went on to win multiple major Canadian theatre awards.

This recognition solidifies Ravi Jain’s influential role in reshaping contemporary theatre. His work bridges cultural epic storytelling with modern, inclusive performance. The Siminovitch Prize win highlights a significant career dedicated to artistic innovation.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What is the Siminovitch Prize?

The Siminovitch Prize is Canada’s most prestigious theatre award. It is given annually to an exceptional theatre creator. The award includes a substantial cash prize and a protégé designation.

What is Ravi Jain known for?

Ravi Jain is known as a director, writer, and founder of Why Not Theatre. He is acclaimed for inclusive, risk-taking work. His major recent project was a reimagined adaptation of the Indian epic Mahabharata.

What was Jain’s Mahabharata adaptation like?

The adaptation premiered in 2023 at the Shaw Festival. It was a nearly five-hour production split into two parts. The play received critical acclaim and won several major awards.

Who did Jain name as his protégé?

Upon receiving the prize, Ravi Jain named artist Miriam Fernandes as the Siminovitch Prize Protégé. Fernandes collaborated with Jain on the Mahabharata adaptation. The protégé selection is a key part of the award’s legacy.