The Geesche Wartemann Emerging Scholars Award is awarded in memory of Geesche Wartemann. The Award is sponsored and adjudicated by the International Theatre for Young Audiences Research Network (ITYARN), a Professional Network of ASSITEJ International. It was awarded for the first time at the 20th ASSITEJ World Congress and Festival in Tokyo, Japan, in April 2021.
Past Winners
-
21st ASSITEJ World Congress and Performing Arts Festival for Children & Young People
Presented in Havana, Cuba
- Dr Katherine Morley (UK)
- Margot Wood (South Africa)
-
20th ASSITEJ World Congress and Performing Arts Festival for Children & Young People
Presented Online Due To COVID-19
• Dr Claire Mason (USA)
-
21st ASSITEJ World Congress and Performing Arts Festival for Children & Young People
Presented in Havana, Cuba
- Dr Katherine Morley (UK)
- Margot Wood (South Africa)
-
20th ASSITEJ World Congress and Performing Arts Festival for Children & Young People
Presented Online Due To COVID-19
• Dr Claire Mason (USA)
Frequently Asked Questions
Award Eligibility
Nominees are selected based on the following criteria:
- The nominee is a current PhD student within 2 years of their degree at the submission deadline, and specialises in any aspect of Theatre for Young Audiences, OR the nominee is within 3 years after finishing their PhD at the time of the submission deadline.
- The nominee demonstrates ongoing contributions to the field of TYA as stated in a maximum 10-page CV.
- The nominee should provide a 5-10 page summary of their current research or dissertation, supported by a separate bibliography of works cited in the study.
- The nominee has to be a member of ITYARN.
- The nominee has the support of two scholars through two letters of support: one from the current or former advisor, and one from a scholar outside of the nominee’s (former) institution. If the nominee is employed, a letter of recommendation from a colleague at their current institution is acceptable.
Who Can Nominate?
ASSITEJ National Centres and Professional Networks of ASSITEJ International or members of the International Theatre for Young Audiences Research Network (ITYARN) can put forward award nominations. Please get in touch with your ASSITEJ National Centre or Professional Network if you have proposals for nominations.
What Is The Nomination Process?
Nominees’ materials—cover letter, summary of research, and bibliography—should be gathered in one PDF; letters of support should be sent separately and confidentially.
Please send nominations to the following address: ityarn.awards2027@gmail.com
What Is The Timeline & When Must Nominations Be Received?
Complete nominations are due February 12, 2027.
How Is The Winner Selected?
The entire ITYARN Board will review the nomination. In case of a conflict of interest, the board member will be recused.
What Will Award Winners Receive?
The award winner will be honoured at the ASSITEJ International World Congress & Performing Arts Festival in Korea in 2027. The award winner will be expected to become a board member of ITYARN and actively contribute to disseminating its mission.
Any Further Questions?
Questions can be sent to the Secretary General or to the Chair of the International Theatre for Young Audiences Research Network (ITYARN).
