November 16th marked the 8th annual Steinberg Playwright Awards.
Presented biennially to playwrights in the beginning and middle stages of their career, the Mimi Awards are a night writers, directors, actors and artists alike are able to come together to celebrate the work of influential playwrights. The Harold and Mimi Steinberg Charitable Trust was founded in 1986, in order to support and fund contemporary playwrights. This year, Branden Jacobs-Jenkins and Dominique Morisseau were celebrated for their incredible work over the past few years.
The ceremony consisted of amazing performances of some of the playwrights’ work, including “An Octoroon”, “War”, “Neighbors” and “Skeleton Crew.” Each playwright gave inspiring speeches to the audience, thanking everyone who has helped them to this place in their career and speaking to what they hope their works provokes. The show was concluded with a beautiful performance of Morisseau’s new work “Jezelle the Gazelle”, which is inspired by the horrific events of police brutality in our country. Performed by Dominique Fishback, this final performance left a lasting impression on the audience and reminded everyone of the importance of new, relevant plays.
Morisseau’s new play “Skeleton Crew” is premiering at Atlantic Theatre Company later this season, and Jacobs-Jenkin’s show “War” will have its showing at Lincoln Center in the spring.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
