Iconic West Village Theater Award Show Returns With Performance

WEST VILLAGE, NY — The Lucille Lortel Theatre, an iconic venue in the West Village, recently announced it will host its award show again for Outstanding Achievement in off-Broadway performances on May 1.

It is considered the preeminent honor for actors working off-Broadway in the country.

The award show will take part alongside a performance celebration on May 1 at 7 p.m. at NYU Skirball, which is the university's center for performing arts at 566 LaGuardia Place.

Actress Deirdre O'Connell will be presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award and David Henry Hwang will be inducted onto the Playwright's Sidewalk in front of the Lucille Lortel Theatre at 121 Christopher St.

The awards, which have been given out since 1988, are named for actress and theater producer Lucille Lortel.

As one of Lortel's last projects, she wanted to create a permanent tribute to off-broadway playwrights and performers.

"As part of the Lucille Lortel Awards ceremony each year, one playwright will be inducted into the sidewalk, having their name engraved into one of the solid bronze stars embedded in black concrete in front of the Theatre," read's the theatre's website.

The awards in 2022 will go to the following categories:

• Outstanding Lead Performer in a Musical
• Outstanding Supporting Performer in a Musical
• Outstanding Lead Performer in a Play
• Outstanding Supporting Performer in a Play
• Outstanding Ensemble

“Off-Broadway has always sought to be a shining example of diversity and inclusivity,” said Casey York, President of the Off-Broadway League, in a news release. “As the world around us – and specifically in New York City’s theatre scene – continues to evolve, it’s important for Off-Broadway to lead the way in acknowledging and celebrating artistic excellence in a more inclusive way."

You can find out more about the awards on the Lucille Lortel Theatre's website.