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Toronto – Le Théâtre français de Toronto (TfT) is proud to announce that the recipient of the 2025 Mariel-O'Neill-Karch Grant (formerly the Joël Beddows Grant) is Merlin Simard. Renamed at the request of Mr. Beddows, this annual scholarship supports the development of Franco-Ontarian playwriting while honoring the memory of the late Mariel O’Neill-Karch, a passionate theatre enthusiast and a prominent figure in Canadian academia.

This year, Karine Ricard has chosen Merlin Simard, an artist whose work pushes the boundaries of theatrical creation.

About Merlin Simard

Merlin Simard (she/elle) is a screenwriter, dramaturg, and performer originally from Missisquoi (Estrie), now based in Tkarón:to (Toronto). Her work explores themes such as accessibility, gender euphoria, and the relationship between technology and identity.

As a screenwriter, she wrote and starred in the short film Poils Anyways (dir. Marie-Claire Marcotte) and is currently developing multiple television projects. In playwriting, she has created numerous works in both French and English, often incorporating virtual reality elements. Her talent has been supported by renowned institutions such as Theatre Passe Muraille, Nightwood Theatre, Buddies In Bad Times, Théâtre français de Toronto, TNO, and Catapulte.

On stage, Merlin is an accomplished performer who has collaborated with companies like Factory Theatre, Stratford, Toronto Dance Theatre, Théâtre français de Toronto, Crow’s, Outside The March, Company Theatre, Buddies In Bad Times, Studio 180, and Théâtre La Tangente. Her commitment to emerging artists is also reflected in her role as facilitator of the Playwrights Unit at the Paprika Festival.

With her innovative approach and sharp perspective on identity issues, Merlin Simard has established herself as a key voice in the contemporary arts scene. TfT is honored to support her journey through the Mariel-O'Neill-Karch Scholarship.

For more information on Merlin Simard: merlinsimard.com | @hussy4hussy