Each year at this time, the staff and resident playwrights of New Dramatists select one individual who has made an "outstanding artistic contribution to the American theatre" and bestows their lifetime achievement award upon them. Last year the organization honored playwright August Wilson, a one-time resident at New Dramatists. On hand to honor Streep at the Marriott Marquis Hotel were playwright Tony Kushner and Tony nominee Kevin Kline. Both spoke of Streep's numerous accomplishments. Also in attendance were Streep's recent Angels in America co-star Al Pacino and Tonya Pinkins, among others.
New Dramatists playwrights have been awarded the last three Pulitzer Prizes for Drama (Suzan Lori-Parks, Nilo Cruz, and Doug Wright), as well as many awards this year for resident Lynn Nottage's Intimate Apparel.
All photos are by Aubrey Reuben.