The anticipation is building for the 2025 Annual Drama Desk Awards, a prestigious event that celebrates the vibrant theater community of New York City. Scheduled for Sunday, June 1st, the awards ceremony will take place at the NYU Skirball Center, located at 566 LaGuardia Place. The event is set to kick off at 6:15 PM, promising an evening filled with excitement, recognition, and entertainment.
This year, the Drama Desk Awards will be hosted by two beloved stars of stage and screen: Debra Messing and Tituss Burgess. Messing, known for her iconic role in “Will & Grace,” and Burgess, celebrated for his performances in “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,” bring their charisma and talent to the forefront of this year’s ceremony. Their involvement not only adds star power to the event but also highlights the importance of community and collaboration within the theater world.
The creative team behind the 2025 Drama Desk Awards is equally impressive. Lorin Latarro, who has directed acclaimed productions such as “The Who’s Tommy” and “The Producers” in the West End, returns to helm the event. Latarro’s vision and experience promise to create a memorable evening that honors the achievements of theater artists across various platforms. The writing duo of Steve Rosen and David Rossmer, known for their work on “The Other Josh Cohen,” will craft the show’s narrative, ensuring that the ceremony is both engaging and entertaining.
Musical direction will be in the capable hands of Dan Lipton, whose expertise will enhance the evening’s performances and celebrations. The visual aspects of the event will be managed by a talented team, including lighting designer Abby May and production management & sound design by Five Ohm. Video design will be overseen by Ido Levran, known for his work on “The Lifespan of a Fact,” while Ira Mont, recognized for his contributions to “Jagged Little Pill,” will serve as the production stage manager. This collaborative effort among seasoned professionals underscores the commitment to excellence that the Drama Desk Awards embody.
The Drama Desk Awards hold a unique position in the New York theater landscape. Unlike other awards, they honor productions from Broadway, Off-Broadway, and Off-Off Broadway, allowing for a diverse range of performances to compete in the same categories. This inclusivity reflects the rich tapestry of New York’s professional theater scene, celebrating not only the big names but also the smaller, innovative productions that contribute to the city’s artistic vibrancy.
Co-Executive Producers Staci Levine and Jessica R. Jenen expressed their excitement about this year’s event, stating, “We are absolutely thrilled that Debra Messing & Tituss Burgess are hosting this year’s Drama Desk Awards, along with a stellar creative team led by Lorin Latarro.” Their enthusiasm highlights the significance of the awards, which not only recognize artistic achievements but also support the theater community. All net proceeds from the event will be donated to the Entertainment Community Fund, providing vital resources to those in the industry.
As the date approaches, theater enthusiasts eagerly await the announcement of the Drama Desk Nominations, set for Wednesday, April 30th. This moment will mark the beginning of the countdown to the awards ceremony, generating buzz and excitement among artists, audiences, and critics alike. The nominations will shine a spotlight on the remarkable talent and creativity that define New York’s theater scene, setting the stage for a night of celebration and recognition.
The 2025 Annual Drama Desk Awards promise to be a spectacular event, showcasing the best of what New York theater has to offer. With a dynamic host duo, a talented creative team, and a commitment to supporting the theater community, this year’s ceremony is sure to be an unforgettable experience for all involved.
