May 4, 2026 (Brantford) – The Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board (BHNCDSB) is pleased to announce that Liya Edwards, a Grade 11 student at Assumption College School (ACS), has earned national recognition through the Theatrical Arts Education Association’s (TAEA) STAR Fest.
Liya was named a national award recipient in the Outstanding Student Written Short Plays in Canada category for her original script, The Job, submitted through the TAEA STAR Short Play Program.
TAEA is Canada’s national arts service organization dedicated to advancing theatre education and connecting students with professional artists. The organization established STAR Fest to celebrate excellence in student performance and playwriting. The festival features work across a range of disciplines, including monologues, scenes, musical theatre, and original scripts, while offering opportunities for mentorship and collaboration with theatre professionals.
“From a young age, I’ve loved writing stories and exploring my creativity,” said Liya. “This opportunity means so much to me, and I’m honoured to have my work recognized through STAR Fest. I look forward to continuing to grow as a writer and bringing my ideas to life on stage.”
“Playwriting requires creativity, resilience and a willingness to continuously refine one’s work,” said Naomi O’Neill, music and drama teacher at ACS. “Liya demonstrates these qualities with confidence and care. It has been a privilege to support her learning in the dramatic arts.”
As part of this recognition, Liya will work alongside professional playwrights to further develop her script. The Job will be workshopped and presented at the STAR Fest national event in the Niagara region later this month.
For more information about the Theatrical Arts Education Association’s STAR Short Play Program, visit https://taeacanada.ca/star-short-play-program/.com
MEDIA RELEASE CONTACT
Tracey Austin | Manager of Communications and Community Relations
Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board
Email: communications@bhncdsb.ca
