Noreen Young
Award for the Arts
This $1,000 award supports a Mississippi Mills student pursuing post-secondary education in the arts (puppetry, visual, media, performing, or related artistic endeavours).
Apply
Applications are open from May 1 - 21, 2026
About the Award
The Noreen Young Award for the Arts celebrates the life and legacy of Noreen Young, OC (1939–2025)—a visionary puppeteer, television creator, and noted Almonte resident.
Her whimsical characters, seen on Under the Umbrella Tree and beyond, shaped Canadian childhoods, while her founding of the Puppets Up! festival brought international acclaim to her hometown. For decades, Noreen continued to make an impact, dedicating time as a volunteer and mentor.
This $1,000 award supports a Mississippi Mills student pursuing post-secondary education in the arts (puppetry, visual, media, performing, or related artistic endeavours).
Applicants must have their primary residence in Mississippi Mills and have been accepted into a post-secondary art program.
How to Apply
Complete the form below. Explain why you think you would be a good candidate for the award and describe any applicable extracurricular or community involvement. One letter of reference is required. You will also have the option to upload a portfolio, resume and/or video.
Selection, based on the established criteria, will be made by a committee established by Puppets Up! The award will be announced at the successful applicant’s local high school commencement ceremony.
Apply
Apply
Complete the application form. Required fields are indicated with *
One letter of reference is required.
You will also have the option to upload a portfolio, resume and/or video. These are not required but might help further your application for the award.
Contact Information
The Noreen Young Award for the Arts is administered by Puppets Up! in partnership with the Ottawa Community Foundation.
Questions? Send us an email at chair@puppetsup.com
Donate
This award will be made annually in perpetuity through Puppets Up! If you would like to make a donation to this endowment, in memory of Noreen Young, your contribution would be welcome and tax receipt will be issued.