Markham Theatre celebrates artistic talent, community leadership

By Nicole Fletcher

The Markham Performing Arts Awards (MPAA) 2025 celebrated creativity, leadership, and a decade of honouring the individuals and groups that help shape the city’s cultural landscape.

Created in 2015 by the Markham Theatre leadership team, the MPAA was established to recognize outstanding artists, community groups, and partners who have contributed to the theatre’s success. An Ambassador of the Year award was added in 2019.

Scott Hill, the theatre’s acting general manager, talked about showcasing the many artists over the years.

“A decade of shining a spotlight on the incredible talent that makes this city’s cultural life so rich and inspiring,” said Hill.

This year’s award recipients are: Professional Artist of the Year – Matt Dusk; Partner of the Year – Tiny Seedlings; Ambassador of the Year – Jeff Wrigglesworth; and Community Group of the Year – Elite Danceworx.

Toronto-born jazz vocalist Matt Dusk, who has four certified gold albums, has performed at the Markham Theatre seven times.

“Now here at the Flato Markham Theatre, Matt Dusk feels a bit like family. Since 2007, he’s headlined on this stage seven times and every show, he’s been an audience favourite,” said Mayor Frank Scarpitti.

“He captivates audiences with warmth, wit, (and) his good looks help a bit too,” he added warmly.

Tiny Seedlings, a community initiative of United Soils Management, has long supported free activities for children across York Region. The group sponsors the theatre’s Every Child, Every Year program, which provides free access to Markham students in Grades 1–8 to attend a show and nurture their love of the arts.

Ambassador of the Year honouree Jeff Wrigglesworth spent two decades as head of music at Unionville High School, conducting concerts and coordinating school events at the theatre.

Elite Danceworx, recognized as Community Group of the Year, has been a key client of the theatre for more than 20 years. The Markham-based dance studio has helped young performers build confidence, develop lifelong skills, and launch professional careers.

Past Professional Artist of the Year recipients include Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy, The Nylons, Menaka Thakkar Dance Company, the late Maestro Kerry Stratton, Canada’s Ballet Jörgen, Pavlo, Sultans of String, Michael Kaeshammer, Motus O dance theatre, and John McDermott.

Photo: Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti and Markham Theatre acting manager Scott Hill with the 2025 MPAA winners.