MACT

Four individuals from Minnesota were presented with awards at AACTFest 2025, held this last week in Des Moines, Iowa. They are (left to right in photo): Dave Metcalf, Julianna Skluzacek, Rachel Bohnsack and Larry Pint. The awards were presented in a special awards ceremony on Friday, June 27, at the beautiful, historic Hoyt Sherman Place Theatre.

Dave Metcalf received the Distinguished Merit Award, which is presented to individuals and organizations in recognition of contributions made to promote and develop the highest standards for community theatre. David has been active in the Minnesota theatre community both as a teacher and director to high school students and as a prolific community theatre director across the state for over 50 years.

Julianna Skluzacek was awarded the Special Recognition Award. AACT presents this national award to individuals and organizations whose contributions to community theatre are far reaching and of a special nature. Julianna was the Artistic Director of The Merlin Players of Faribault for twenty-five years.  Her talents as a director, actor, and leader are outstanding. 

Rachel Bohnsack was also awarded the Special Recognition Award. AACT presents this national award to individuals and organizations whose contributions to community theatre are far reaching and of a special nature. Rachel is a passionate arts leader, educator, and visionary whose work has transformed lives and communities through theatre.

Larry Pint received the David C. Bryant Outstanding Service Award, which recognizes individual members of AACT for significant, valuable, and lasting service to community theatre. A steadfast advocate for the arts, Larry has devoted decades to building spaces—both physical and creative—where community theatre can thrive.

Also at AACTFest 2025, Mark Hansen and Steff Stafford received awards for Absolute Theatre’s production of Forever Plaid. More on those awards next week.