Don Larew, professor emeritus of theatre arts, received a Governor's Award for the Arts during a ceremony Feb. 1 in Bismarck, North Dakota.
Don Larew, NDSU professor emeritus of theatre arts, was one of six recipients of the North Dakota Governor’s Awards for the Arts presented Feb. 1 at the North Dakota Heritage Center in Bismarck, North Dakota. He was honored with the Arts in Education category.
Larew taught at NDSU for 40 years and served as the designer and technical director for the Little Country Theater, the touring company Prairie Stage, North Dakota Repertory Theatre and several other theatrical productions.
During his acceptance speech, Larew said each production became a close-knit family. He took many photos during his career and he said he enjoys looking at them to recall precious memories. Larew received a standing ovation in recognition of his efforts and his passion for theatre.
“Don joined the NDSU theatre faculty in 1969 and has been a passionate practitioner and supporter of theatre in ND for over 50 years,” said Mark Engler, NDSU theatre arts department head and associate professor. “Don was one of the first, if not the first, professional theatrical designer in the region. He designed scenery, lights and costumes for more than 100 productions at NDSU and worked as a designer for many regional organizations and schools. Don has inspired hundreds of students over the years to pursue a career in theatre.”
Larew also has been involved with the Fargo-Moorhead Community Theatre, Red River Dance and Performing Co., FM Opera Company, Plains Art Museum and the the Fine Arts Club.
The North Dakota Governor’s Awards for the Arts is a biennial program presented by the Governor’s office and North Dakota Council on the Arts to honor organizations and individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the arts in the state. The awards program was established in 1977.
Other recipients include:
• Grand Forks folk artist Pieper Fleck Bloomquist for Individual Achievement
• Western North Dakota cowboy writer Bill Lowman for Cultural Heritage
• Former State Sen. Joan Heckman for Champion of the Arts
• The Grand Forks Empire Arts Center for Arts Organization
• Bismarck’s Makoché Studios in the Business category
Larew is congratulated by North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum.
As a student-focused, land-grant, research university, we serve our citizens.
