Boston Children's Theatre (BCT) is pleased to announce that BCT Executive Artistic Director and playwright Burgess Clark has been nominated for a 2012 Elliot Norton Award in the category of 'Outstanding New Script' for Reflections of a Rock Lobster. The Elliot Norton Awards are presented by the Boston Theater Critics Association to recognize outstanding theater in Boston.

Based on the true story of a high school student who sued his school in 1980 for the right to bring his boyfriend to the prom, Reflections of a Rock Lobster had its World Premiere at the Boston Center for the Arts in March, 2012. Adapted for the stage by Clark from the book by Aaron Fricke, Reflections of a Rock Lobster features subjects not often associated with children's theatre: anti-bullying, growing up gay and civil rights. The play took three years to write and develop, during which time Clark staged a series of workshops and readings with student and professional actors. "It was a tremendous experience to work with teenagers on such sensitive topics, particularly bullying, that effect them as much today as it did 30 years ago," revealed Clark.

According to Clark, Reflections of a Rock Lobster also signifies BCT's commitment to the development of new works for students. "I am thrilled that the Boston theater community is recognizing the important messages in Reflections of a Rock Lobster," said Clark. "It is an honor to have their support as we launch our New Works program to create plays and musicals that are immediate and relevant to today's youth."

The Elliot Norton Awards will be held on May 21, 2012 at the Paramount Center. For details about the awards, visit www.nortonawardsboston.com. For more information on Boston Children's Theatre and Reflections of a Rock Lobster, visit www.bostonchildrenstheatre.org.