By Jennifer R Jones | Posted on June 22, 2013 2:28 PM
The Tony Awards Expand Eligibility For The Regional Theatre Award To New York-Based Companies, Recognizing Their Contribution, Theater Growth, Allowing Off-Broadway Companies To Be Honored
Regional Tony Expands Award to Off-Broadway Companies
For decades, in addition to honoring the best of Broadway theater in New York City, the Tony Awards have also presented a Regional Theatre Award in recognition of distinguished work happening outside of the New York area. However, the Tony Awards Administration Committee has recently announced that, starting this coming theatrical season, New York-based companies will now also be eligible for this regional award.
“The Regional Theatre Award honors artistic achievement contributing to the growth of theatre nationally,” said Charlotte St. Martin of The Broadway League and Heather Hitchens of the American Theatre Wing, in a joint statement. “New York has some of the most prestigious and creative theatre groups in the country and we are thrilled to include the New York theatre community in this category.” The change was likely made so that worthy Off-Broadway theater companies can be honored by the Tonys for their excellent work. Past recipients of the Regional Tony award have included Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Atlanta's Alliance Theatre, and Seattle's Intiman Playhouse.
