Villanova Theatre Alum Wins Top Performing Arts Award in Czech Republic

Villanova Theatre alum Becka McFadden '04 CLAS, '07 MA won the 2023 Thálie Award for Alternative Theatre for the solo performance of Black Dress. The Thálie is the leading performing arts award in the Czech Republic, where McFadden has been living and working for the past five years.

Black Dress is a euphoric solo exploration of nonbinary femme identity told through story, dance and 12 black dresses from McFadden’s own wardrobe. Shot through with humor, vulnerability and queer joy, Black Dress is an invitation to a journey of self-discovery and celebration.

McFadden is the artistic director at Beautiful Confusion Collective and associate artistic director at LegalAliens Theatre.

"We couldn't be prouder of Becka and this latest recognition of their artistry," said Michael Hollinger, professor and artistic director of Villanova Theatre. "Even while still a student in Villanova's MA in Theatre program, Becka's passion and affinity for solo performance were amply evident. I sincerely hope we'll have the opportunity to see their work on this side of the Atlantic soon."

Learn more about Villanova's graduate programs in Theatre.