Birmingham Black Repertory Theatre Collective and Encore Theatre & Gallery’s Rickey Powell Excellence in Theatre Award is a multi-year scholarship celebrating the legacy and work of Birmingham’s theatre legend, Sylvester “Rickey” Powell, by uplifting a Birmingham-based student’s studies in Higher Arts Education.

From the local stages of Birmingham to Broadway (The Wiz) and Europe (Porgy & Bess), Rickey is remembered for the way he would light up a room, his talents, and the way showed up for the community. One student receives a $1200 award per year of study at an undergraduate institution.

Past Awardees

Marva Douglas Community Leadership Award

As an Artistic Partner of Birmingham Black Repertory Theatre Collective, in addition to playing the spiritual tentpole character of Aunt Mama in our 2019 Southeastern premiere of "Sugar In Our Wounds" by Donja R. Love, Marva embodies the spirit of empathy and compassion. As an Alabama public transit advocate living in Midfield, in a state in desperate need of mass transit dollars, she has tirelessly fought for the rights and accessibility of public transportation, recognizing its vital importance in ensuring equity and opportunity for even the most vulnerable members of our community.

One person receives a $500 award per year.