The Brian Best Award

Award Description

The award was named in honor of Brian Best, someone who was passionate about and committed to the performing arts in Howard County.  Sadly, Brian passed away in 2011 due to complications from cancer.  Brian graduated from Mt. Hebron High School in the late 1970s and was involved in Howard County Summer Theater, Toby’s Dinner Theater, and Shadow Block Productions, which eventually became Silhouette Stages.  

Brian directed and performed in numerous Silhouette Stages productions, including Sugar, The Music Man, Bye, Bye Birdie, and Is There Life After High School, as well as participating in set construction and design.  Brian was a loyal husband, dedicated father, avid golfer, and was always willing to help with anything at any time.

The Brian Best Award was established in 2012 with the support of Brian’s wife, Rhonda, and is awarded annually to volunteers who make significant and outstanding contributions to the organization.  “Our volunteers make it possible for us to continue to provide theatrical opportunities for technical and performing artists in and around Howard County, and to bring affordable, high-quality theatrical productions to our community.  Presenting the Brian Best Award not only recognizes extraordinary volunteer service, but honors the cherished memory of our friend Brian Best.”

Each recipient of the Brian Best Award is presented with a monetary award and an official letter of recognition.

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Requirements

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• Applicant must have made considerable contributions to Silhouette Stages
Community Theater, going above and beyond in their volunteerism through
donation of time and effort to the health and sustainability of the theater.
Applicant must not have been paid for their contributions (via stipends or
otherwise), or if the applicant has received a stipend for their work, the
application must detail how the individual went above and beyond in their
position, and how this work was not covered by a stipend.

• Applicant must have been connected to Silhouette Stages through their

volunteer service for a minimum of one year.

• Applicant must have a demonstrated history of loyalty and dedication to the

organization (as evidenced in the volunteer application for consideration.
How to nominate someone for the Annual Brian Best Award:
• Complete Application (Complete the scholarship application here).
• Essay detailing applicant’s qualifications and service
• Letter of recommendation (from a person other than the one completing the
application)
• Completed application must be submitted no later than August 12, 2025 via
the completion of the digital nomination form

Number of Awards: 1 to 2 to be presented at Silhouette Stages Fall Cabaret on
September 6 from 7 to 10 PM
Award Amounts: $500 to $1000 (depending on number of awardees)
Nomination Deadline: August 12 by noon
 

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