CHICAGO-- The fifth annual Michael Merritt Awards Ceremony and reception will be held April 20 at Steppenwolf Theatre, to honor Chicago's theater design community by celebrating the work of three renowned theatrical designers for excellence in achievement and collaboration.
This year's recipients will be costume designer Nan Cibula-Jenkins, scene designer Ralph Funicello and sound designer Rob Milburn.
This year's event also features a "first"--the inauguration of a $1,000 award to be presented annually to an emerging Chicago theatrical designer of exceptional ability.
Emceeing the event is John Mahoney, co-star of NBC's "Frasier" and a Steppenwolf ensemble member. For information call Carol Bryant at 312-344- 7524.
-- By Lawrence Bommer
Chicago Correspondent