The Helen Hayes Tribute, sponsored by Jaylee Mead, annually recognizes theatre artists who exemplify excellence and great commitment to their craft. For 28 years, the Helen Hayes Awards, a program of theatreWashington, has recognized excellence in Washington theatre. "As an artist and advocate for the arts, Kevin Spacey makes us realize the tragedy we would face if there were no theatre," said Linda Levy, president and CEO of theatreWashington, in a statement.

Past honorees have included Anne Jackson and Eli Wallach, Derek Jacobi, James Earl Jones, Mary Martin, Angela Lansbury, Jason Robards, Stephen Sondheim, Chita Rivera, Lynn Redgrave, August Wilson and Helen Hayes.

Spacey won the Tony Award in 1991 for his performance in Lost in Yonkers. He was nominated for his performance in The Iceman Cometh and has also been seen on Broadway in A Moon for the Misbegotten, Long Day's Journey Into Night, Hurlyburly and Ghosts. He has worked as a director, screenwriter, producer, and singer and is artistic director at the Old Vic in London. He is a two-time Oscar winner for "American Beauty" and "The Usual Suspects."