The Vern Williamsen Comedia Book Prize is awarded every three years to the outstanding scholarly book published by a current member of the Association during the previous three years. Monographs, edited volumes, critical editions and anthologies related to the Comedia are eligible for the prize; monographs emphasizing the performance of Hispanic classical theater are especially encouraged. The prize, which consists of a certificate and recognition on the AHCT website and conference program, will be presented to the winning author at the association’s annual symposium. Books published between 2023 and 2025 are eligible for this award cycle.
To enter a book into the competition, authors or publishers should send confirmation of the author’s membership in the AHCT and either (1) a digital copy or (2) three print copies to AHCT Vern Williamsen Book Prize, Attn: Rob Bayliss, Department of Spanish & Portuguese, University of Kansas, 2650 Wescoe Hall, Lawrence, KS 66045. In the case of a born-digital publication, send the relevant media or URL and a letter identifying the work to rbayliss@ku.edu. Entries may be sent at any time but must be received by 1 April of 2026 to be considered for the current award cycle. Membership may be established at the time of submission.
Publishers may enter more than one title, but no work may be entered in more than one AHCT competition. Shipping labels or enclosures should indicate the names of the prizes for which the books are competing. For further information, contact Rob Bayliss at rbayliss@ku.edu.