English Student Levi Mason Earns Second Place in 2025 Play Right Prize
University of Lethbridge English student, Levi Mason, has secured second place in the 2025 Play Right Prize competition for his evocative script, God is a Black Hole. This annual contest, generously sponsored by Chancellor Terry Whitehead (BA '94), recognizes and supports student excellence in playwriting through monetary awards and professional development opportunities.
God is a Black Hole delves into themes of existentialism, nihilism, and the quest for meaning against the backdrop of an impending apocalypse. The narrative follows three childhood friends who reunite at the world's end, reflecting on their choices, regrets, and enduring bonds. Despite its somber themes, Mason emphasizes the play's underlying elements of joy and hope.
“How could I make something about existentialism, nihilism, and the end of the world something people actually want to read and watch?” Mason pondered. “It might be a play about accepting that nothing matters and dealing with religious trauma, but it’s also about friendship, healing, and playing at the park.”
Mason attributes the inspiration for his script to the English course "Literature and Nothingness," taught by Dr. Jay Gamble. A class discussion linking concepts of God, black holes, and existential nothingness sparked the central idea for his play.+1
Competition jurors Jenn Taylor, Managing Director of the Alberta Playwrights’ Network, and award-winning playwright Chelsea Woolley (BA/BEd ’14), lauded Mason’s work for its contemplative depth and sensitive portrayal of friendship and identity.
“In a moment at the end of the world, who would you turn to for comfort?” Taylor reflected. “Together, the friends in God is a Black Hole confront their pasts and seek validation from their found family.” Woolley further praised the play for its powerful imagery and nuanced exploration of growing up queer.
Playwriting has long been Mason's aspiration, with a rich background in theater as a performer, sound technician, assistant director, and director. Winning second place in the competition represents a significant milestone toward realizing this dream.
“This award is incredibly validating,” Mason expressed. “Knowing that others find merit in my work and that it resonates with them has ignited hope and ambition in me.”
As the second-place winner, Mason receives a cash prize of $750 along with professional dramaturgical support to further refine his script.
The Play Right Prize, presented by the Faculty of Fine Arts, continues to foster and celebrate the creative talents of University of Lethbridge students, providing them with invaluable opportunities to develop their craft and gain recognition in the broader artistic community.
For more information about the Play Right Prize and other student awards, visit the University of Lethbridge's awards and prizes page.