The Virginia and Myrtle Cooper Award in Costume Design was established in 2006 by the late Dr. Virginia S. Cooper of Toronto. An annual award meant to be given “for the love of creation,” it is intended to enrich the careers of professional mid-career Canadian costume designers in Ontario through research and travel.

Dr. Cooper had a keen interest in the performing arts, particularly in costume design, and served as a director of the Tarragon Theatre. She was a charter member of the Arts and Letters Club of Toronto and active in its activities.

Beginning in 2026, the Virginia and Myrtle Cooper Award also offers an annual $7,500 Protégé Award in support and recognition of emerging theatrical costume designers in Ontario, nominated by that year’s award laurate.

Award:  $30,000

Current Recipient
2026     Rachel Forbes

Protégé Award Recipient
2026     Des’ree Gray

Past Award Recipients
2025     Michelle Tracey
2024     Nadine Grant
2023     Vanessa Imeson
2022     Anna Treusch
2021     Ming Wong
2020     Sean Mulcahy
2019     Joanna Yu
2018     Gillian Gallow
2017     Tamara Marie Kucheran
2016     Camellia Koo
2015     Robin Fisher
2014     Anne Dixon
2013     Julie Fox
2012     Dana Osborne
2011     Lea Carlson
2010     Carolyn M. Smith
2009     Charlotte Dean
2008     Michael Gianfrancesco
2007     Judith Bowden

News Releases
Rachel Forbes Awarded the 2026 Virginia and Myrtle Cooper Award in Costume Design   September 14, 2026