The Awards

On Now: Request for Proposals

Theatre Nova Scotia is excited to invite proposals for a new design for our pewter Merritt trophy statue. 

This new design will commemorate our 25th annual awards ceremony in 2027!

Submission deadline is Friday, May 15th, 2026

List of Current Awards & Prizes

The Merritts award just under 30 categories and prizes each year. A mixture of Juried awards, Nomination awards, and scholarship prizes. You can see the full list of awards below, and learn more on how to submit for Nominated Awards and Scholarships here.

Juried Awards:

  1. Outstanding New Nova Scotian Play
  2. Outstanding New Nova Scotian Adaptation
  3. Outstanding Choreography
  4. Outstanding Costume Design
  5. Outstanding Direction
  6. Outstanding Fight Direction
  7. Outstanding Lighting Design
  8. Outstanding Musical Direction
  9. Outstanding Original Score or Composition
  10. Outstanding Projection Design
  11. Outstanding Scenic Design
  12. Outstanding Sound Design
  13. Outstanding Performance in a Leading Role 
  14. Outstanding Performance in a Leading Role
  15. Outstanding Performance in a Supporting Role
  16. Outstanding Performance in a Supporting Role
  17. Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble
  18. Outstanding Production
  19. Outstanding Independent Production
  20. Outstanding Emerging Production

Nomination Awards:

  1. April Hubbard Creative Access Award
  2. Legacy Award
  3. Outstanding Emerging Artist Award
  4. Outstanding Stage Manager
  5. Outstanding Technician
  6. Outstanding Volunteer

 

Scholarships:

  1. Theatre Nova Scotia Professional Development Award
  2. Wes Daniels Design Award