It could have been recognition for a successful career in the arts, meeting some of his esteemed peers and learning more about their work, or a financial prize that is among the largest for artists in the province.

Instead, the best part of a whirlwind evening for Keith Barker, one of five recipients of the prestigious Johanna Metcalf Performing Arts Prizes, was getting a chance to introduce arts industry movers and shakers to his friend and “protégé”, Chris Mejaki, at a ceremony at the Gardiner Museum in Toronto. 

Barker, Director of New Plays at the Stratford Festival, enjoyed sharing the stage with his Stratford Festival colleague and friend. 

“The most exciting thing was being able to pick Chris, an actor and playwright, and support him and his trajectory as an emerging artist.

“That was part of the magic of the night.”

READ THE FULL STORY HERE