Established in 1945, the
Theatre World Award is the oldest award given for both Broadway and
Off-Broadway performances. After 70 years,
it is one of the most treasured honors given to actors anywhere. Each year, twelve exceptional actors are
recognized for their significant, reviewable debut performances. Consequently, a performer has one opportunity
to receive this particular honor during their career. The contribution this Award
has made to the theatre is incalculable. Another distinguishing feature of the Theatre
World Award is that it is given in recognition of individual performance,
rather than being a competitive honor. Because it is given for a debut performance,
it encourages and inspires newcomers to the stage to continue to
pursue their dream. It is freely given at a time when encouragement
is so necessary in an industry known more for rejection than
reception.