It all started when…

The Lucille Lortel Awards recognize excellence in New York Off-Broadway theatre. The Awards are named for Lucille Lortel, an actress and theater producer, and have been awarded since 1986. They are produced by the Off-Broadway League and the Lucille Lortel Theatre, with additional support from the Theatre Development Fund.

The History

As one of her last projects, Lucille Lortel wanted to create a permanent tribute to international playwrights whose work has been performed Off-Broadway. On October 26, 1998 she unveiled the Playwrights’ Sidewalk at the Lucille Lortel Theatre. 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 imbedded in black concrete in front of the Theatre.

To learn more about Lucille Lortel visit Lortel.org