Posted on October 3, 2009

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New York Community Trust Announces 2009 Helen Merrill Playwriting Award Winners

The New York Community Trust has announced the winners of the 2009 Helen Merrill Playwriting Awards. Each of the eight winners will receive a $20,000 cash award.

Established by theatrical agent Helen Merrill, who died in 1997, the awards recognize established and emerging playwrights. This year the winners of the Distinguished Playwright award are Nilo Cruz, Michael Weller, and Lanford Wilson. The winners of the 2009 Emerging Playwrights award are Zakiyyah Alexander, Bathsheba Doran, Michael Golamco, Deborah Laufer, and Justin Sherin.

"Helen Merrill came to us to ensure that her legacy would be carried out in the way that she wanted," said Gay Young, director of donor relations at the New York Community Trust. "We think Ms. Merrill would be extremely happy to know that her unwavering support and dedication to the theater lives on."

“Eight Playwrights Win Helen Merrill Award.” New York Community Trust Press Release 9/20/09.

Primary Subject: Arts and Culture
Location(s): New York City

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