"We at AVP are inspired by Tony Kushner's brave and honest commentary on our culture and our society," said AVP executive director Sharon Stapel in a statement. "His work inspires us to make connections between class, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender identity and to dream of a world that is fair and equal. He also forces us to see the realities of our struggles and how far we have come, and how far we have to go, to achieve equal rights for LGBT people."

Kusher's latest play, The Intelligent Homosexual's Guide to Capitalism and Socialism With a Key to the Scriptures, is expected to arrive in New York in 2010. There has been no official announcement. A Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winner for Angels in America, Kushner also penned Short Talks on the Universe, A Bright Room Called Day, Slavs!, Hydriotaphia, Homebody/Kabul and the book and lyrics to the Tony-nominated musical Caroline, or Change.

The 13th annual Courage Awards will be presented at the W New York Ballroom (541 Lexington Avenue). Cocktails and a chefs' tasting will be part of the awards evening.

For tickets, phone (212) 714-1184, or visit AVP.