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2021 Virtual Design Competition
In conjunction with Virtual AACTFest 2021
The AACT 2021 National Design Competition showcased the best of community theatre in this country. It was an opportunity
for your theatre and designers to shine, sponsored by USITT.
AACT member theatres and their designers entered designs, which must have been for projects occurring between July 1,
2011 and May 1, 2021. There were five design categories: Scenic, Lighting, Properties, Costume, and Special Design.
The competition's adjudicators awarded honors to the following entries:
Outstanding Achievement in Overall Design
Outstanding Achievement in Special Design Project
Madeline Ahston (Hale Centre Theatre, Sandy, Utah) for Daddy Long
Legs. Adjudicators: "This is visually stunning work and a very clever
compression of multiple spaces into a single unit setting that enhances
the flow of the show while creating a space that adds meaning to and
throughout the progress of the show."
Outstanding Achievement in Scenic Design
Jack Yates (Theatre Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee) for The Drowsy
Chaperone. Adjudicators: "There is very careful attention to detail and
finish in this work that sets a high standard for how a scene designer
can create an environment with an atmosphere, and creatively solve
challenging technical requirements."
Outstanding Achievement in Lighting Design
Jack Yates (Theatre Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee) for Shrek Dragon
Head. Adjudicators: "Three-dimensional work on this scale is difficult
to do. The attention to careful sculpting, overall appearance and
management of the scale of the illusion show a high level of design
and technical skills."
Honorable Mention in Costume Design
Honorable Mention in Lighting Design
Rhonda Turnquist (Cottage
Theatre, Cottage Grove,
Oregon) for The Importance of
Being Earnest. Adjudicators:
"Of special note for this
recognition would be the
spectacular work in the
tailoring and fitting of the
men's suits for this period
play."
Robert Frame (Auburn Public Theatre, Auburn, New York) for Betrayal.
Adjudicators: "The concept statement clearly defines the design approach
and intent and the production photos document the accomplishment
of that intent. Supporting documentation is very complete.
Lighting for shadow is difficult to do, and this work preserves visibility
while creating mood."
Mandy Heath (Theatre Memphis, Memphis Tennessee) for Cats. Adjudicators:
"Merging theatrical and dance lighting techniques allowed
the accomplishment for memorable visual moments in this production.
Work was supported with a clear concept and required documentation."
28 AACT Spotlight September/October 2021