HomeArts-TheaterNew Federal Theatre to Receive Lucille Lortel Honor

New Federal Theatre to Receive Lucille Lortel Honor

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New Federal Theatre is proud to announce that we are receiving a special honor from the Lucille Lortel Foundation, the Body of Work Award. We are deeply honored and grateful that our contributions to American theatre are being recognized.


Woodie King, Jr. founded New Federal Theatre in 1970 to address the lack of opportunities for Black artists, artists of color, and women in the American theatre landscape. He created a space where these voices could thrive. His vision was inspired by the Federal Theatre Project, led by Hallie Flanagan, and the Negro Theatre Project. During the Great Depression, Negro Units were established in over 23 cities across the United States, providing employment and critical support to artists.

Woodie King, Jr.

Over 1,000 Black artists were employed through these initiatives.
Today, 55 years later, we proudly stand on the realized vision of Woodie King, Jr., whose work has had a lasting and profound impact on American theatre, launching the careers of thousands of artists—including playwrights, actors, designers, technicians, administrative staff, front and back-of-house personnel, donors, funders, and audiences alike.


This award, and the legacy it represents, would not have been possible without each and every one of you. We extend our heartfelt thanks and are thrilled to share this good news with our entire community. We could not have achieved this without you!

Sunday, May 4th, at 7:00 PM
NYU Skirball Theater
566 LaGuardia Pl, New York

PS
New Federal Theatre is still going strong: We have the NY premiere of THE WASH by Kelundra Smith, directed by Awoye Timpo, presented by Elizabeth Van Dyke, Producing Artistic Director of New Federal Theatre.
In 1881, Black laundresses in Atlanta led the first successful interracial, organized labor strike of the post-Civil War era. This hilarious and powerful play shows the journey of these ordinary women transforming into fearless fighters who changed history!
For ticket information: www.newfederaltheatre.com

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