BILL CRAWFORD MEMORIAL AWARD (established 1988) is given on very special occasions to a person or member organization in recognition of services and devotion to OCTA and its theatres. This honors one of the founding members of OCTA. Bill Crawford was known nationally for his work as Arts Editor of the Lawton Constitution newsletter.  His great love for the arts came through loud and clear in his articles and reviews.  He always did his homework–reading plays and biographies, and articles about performers, authors, and composers.  His writings were literate, well thought out, and based on a foundation of informed knowledge, not a hypothesis.  Bill was always relied upon for his knowledge, his enthusiasm, and his wit.

History: OCTA had not previously recognized the contributions made by Mr. Crawford as one of the Founders except through the publication, OCTAGON.  This award commemorates not only his memory but also his sincere devotion and his efforts to organize, perpetuate, and to advance community theatre not only in Oklahoma but the Region and Nationally.

This award is presented to a person or member organization in recognition of their service and devotion to OCTA and its theatres.

Bill Crawford Memorial Award Past Recipients

2023

Martha Cherbini

2022

Leslie Currell, Stillwater

2019

Gina Flesher, Duncan

2015

Dr. Andrew Kimbrough, Stillwater

2013

Cynthia Kent, Lawton

2011

Ronny Jones, Shawnee

2009

Shonda Currell, Elk City

2006

Merrisue Lucardeaux, OKC (deceased)

2004

Thomas Cowley, Ponca City

2002

Paula McGee, McAlester

1999

Dwayne Brittain, Duncan

1997

Shirlie Gentry, Oklahoma Arts Council

1993

John and Eleanor (deceased) Kirkpatrick, Oklahoma City

1992

George Kaiser, Tulsa

1989

Lil Williams, Ardmore (deceased)

Jimmy Vaugh, Oklahoma City (deceased)

Jeanne Adams Wray, Stillwater (deceased)