Shining Star Wall of Recognition

This year’s recipient continues to blaze a trail across the artistic landscape of Nova Scotia and beyond. A prolific director, actor, and writer, they have dedicated the last two decades to the craft of creating, devising, and writing bold original works. As the founding Artistic Director of HEIST , he has been the visionary force behind several acclaimed productions,

including The Princess Show and New Waterford Boy.

However, tonight we celebrate his most resonant achievement for our community: Coal Bowl Queen.

Defined by a consistent pursuit of excellence, Richie Wilcox’s career has earned him the Mayor’s Award for Emerging Theatre Artist in 2007, the Queen’s Jubilee Medal in 2023, and a Merritt Award for his standout performance in Princess Rules. Most recently, the literary strength of his work was recognized when Coal Bowl Queen was named first runner-up for

the 2025 Jenny Mundy Atlantic Play Award. 

Coal Bowl Queen offers a vital, authentic portrayal of one of our community’s most iconic events. It captures the true spirit, pride, and togetherness that define both the tournament and the town of New Waterford, celebrating the resilience, humor, and heart that make Cape Breton unique. By bringing these local stories and memories to life on stage, he has

created a profound sense of recognition for us all. As one reviewer aptly stated: “Coal Bowl Queen is an epic story of love, loss, and identity—and a love letter to New Waterford.”

For capturing the soul of the Coal Bowl so beautifully on stage, it is our esteemed privilege—on behalf of the Board of Directors—to present the 2026 Shining Star Award to Richie Wilcox.