The Drama Desk Awards nominations will be announced Tuesday, April 25, 2000. The awards ceremony will take place May 14, once again at the LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts at Lincoln Center. There will also be a Nominees' Cocktail Party April 27.
On the nominating committee this year: Frank Scheck, Chairman (Hollywood Reporter), Jonathan Kalb (NY Press), David Kaufman (Daily News), David Sheward (Back Stage), Barbara Siegel (Show Business), Robert Simonson (Playbill On-Line) and Francine Russo (Village Voice).
Long before awards madness begins, however, the Drama Desk is offering a theatre-related panel to members and the public. Dec. 9, Dame Edna will talk and schmooze with the assembled at the Broadway Grill in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, 12-2 PM. The price, including buffet lunch, is $25. For information (reservations necessary) call (212) 978-0213.
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The Drama Desk Awards, begun in 1955 when the Drama Desk organization was five years old, recognize excellence in Broadway and Off-Broadway theatre. Drama Desk president David Sheward told Playbill On Line he attributed the organization's 50-year longevity to its regular meetings, panels and gatherings. "It's the only group that really allows for people who write about theatre to get together on a regular basis and exchange ideas, information and thoughts about the profession. There's no organization like it. Also, the Awards have continued for all these years. They're the most inclusive and comprehensive theatre awards in New York. We include everybody, on and Off-Broadway, on an equal basis in all our categories. Nothing is excluded." -- By David Lefkowitz