New Yorkers may have to wait, but playwright Terrence McNally will get a day in the sun today, May 12. He'll be the honoree at the 49th annual New Dramatists Spring Luncheon, at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York.

Plays by McNally include Love! Valour! Compassion!, Master Class, The Ritz, Bad Habits, A Perfect Ganesh and The Lisbon Traviata. He's also the librettist for Kiss of the Spider Woman, Ragtime and an upcoming revival of Pal Joey. Ragtime's cast will perform at the May 12 luncheon.

Livent founder, vice-chairman and chief creative director Garth Drabinsky will serve as the event's honorary chairman.

Founded in 1949, New Dramatists offers a haven for playwrights to develop their craft. Among the best-known alumni are Mac Wellman, Joe Masteroff, Michael Stewart and Pulitzer-winner Paula Vogel.

Months ago, the New Dramatists' Musical Artist Development Program received a $10,000 grant from the Mackintosh Foundation in London. The donation will support readings of new musical works-in-progress. Other musical programs run by, or affiliated with, New Dramatists' musical opportunities include a two-week, Composer/Librettist studio (in conjunction with Nautilus Music Theatre of Minneapolis) and the Salon developmental lab for musical writing teams. For tickets ($150) and information on the Ragtime luncheon call (212) 757-6960.