Will theatre prof Brian Richmond be the People’s choice?

Phoenix Theatre professor Brian Richmond has been nominated for the People’s Order of British Columbia, a grassroots initiative spearheaded by scrappy online magazine, The Tyee. And while Richmond has done admirable work as part of UVic’s theatre faculty, it’s his brainchild Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre Company that earned him the nod.

Here’s the nomination wording as found on the Tyee: “A few years ago, Brian Richmond decided Victoria, B.C. could support a repertory theatre company. His Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre Company has proven with three seasons of highly successful and professional productions that it was a brilliant idea . . . Blue Bridge is [now] heading into its fourth year. There is, of course, some doubt that such a theatre can continue to produce the highest calibre productions owing to an absolute lack of government funding. For his part, Brian Richmond has put his career on the line . . . in support of his dream. Every year he directs at least one play and ensures that young actors are mentored and given a chance to prove themselves. This committed, industrious and talented man fully deserves to hold the honour of People’s Order of British Columbia.”

Visit the Tyee’s People’s Order of British Columbia page to get the full scoop on how to vote for Brian, and to see the 20 other nominees.