What Are Obie Awards?
The Obie Awards, which is also known as Off-Broadway Theater Awards, are the annual awards that were originally given by The Village Voice newspaper to theatre artists and groups in New York City. The first Obie Awards were given in 1956. Then, in September 2014, the American Theatre Wing joined in the Obie Awards as a presented and administered party.
While the Tony Awards are for Broadway productions, the Obie Awards are for Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway productions.
According to the original plan, the 65th annual Obie Awards should be given on Monday, May 18, 2020. But, due to the COVID-19 crisis, the live broadcast was canceled. Alternatively, it will premiere on YouTube on Thursday, June 4, at 8 p.m.
This is the statement from Heather Hitchens, the Wing’s president:
New York’s Off- and Off-Off-Broadway artists inspire, challenge, spark change, and ignite passion. They are the foundation of innovation and a vital part of the fabric of American theatre. This year, the COVID-19 crisis has challenged our community in ways we could have never imagined, but the creativity and collaboration inherent within these artists will enable theatre to ascend once again. The American Theatre Wing honors theatre that impacts the American experience. As the proud co-presenter of the Obie Awards we are privileged to celebrate this incredible work.
The 65th Obie Awards on YouTube [2020]
The 65th annual Obie Awards are for the shows that opened between May 1, 2019 and March 12, 2020. The shining a light on the productions that were in rehearsal and performance at the time the theatres closed are also included.
In the show, it will honor Michael Feingold, the longtime Village Voice theatre critic and former Obie chairman, to show a special citation for his work of being a leading voice in theatre criticism, his advocacy on behalf of Off- and Off-Off-Broadway, as well as his 43-year of dedication to the Obie Awards, including 12 as the chairman.
Besides, the Obie is going to establish a special annual citation in Feingold’s name. This award means to recognize the achievements in criticism, dramaturgy, translation, scholarship, mentorship, or education, or for a theatrical contribution that has not been historically acknowledged by major awards.
Two Lifetime Achievement awards will be handed out to:
- To Vinie Burrows, to recognize her radical embrace of art and life, and the strength and inspiration she has given to the world in a career spanning seven decades.
- To Tim Sanford, to recognize his extraordinary contribution to the theater, including 36 years at Playwrights Horizons, first as a literary intern, then as a literary manager, then as artistic director for the past 24 years.
To celebrate the 25th Anniversary of its Obie Award, members of the York Theatre revival of Merrily We Roll Along will cooperate with members of the original Broadway and 2019 Fiasco Theater revival to show a special performance: “Our Time.” Shaina Taub, a songwriter and performer, will also perform during the In Memoriam.
Moreover, there will be a pre-show fundraiser. Patti LuPone, together with Adam Michael Tilford and Kenney M. Green from Marie’s Crisis, will give a performance at that time. This action means to support the Wing’s efforts to support and sustain the theatre community in the period of COVID-19 pandemic.
This year’s Obie Awards are co-chaired by Rachel Hauck (scenic designer) and Sam Pinkleton (choreographer). Feingold is served as an advisor in the role of Chairman Emeritus.
The judges’ panel includes:
- David Barbour, Lighting & Sound America editor-in-chief.
- Mark Barton, lighting designer.
- Camille A. Brown, choreographer.
- David Greenspan, actor and playwright.
- Jennifer Ikeda, actor.
- David Mendizábal, Movement Theatre Company producing artistic leader.
- Diep Tran, Broadway.com features editor.
- Anne Washburn, playwright.
How to Download Obie Awards on YouTube?
On Thursday, June 4, at 8 p.m., you can go to YouTube to watch the Obie Award streaming. However, if you miss the show, you can also search for the show on YouTube. We believe that there should be a full show or some segments.
At that time, you can even use MiniTool uTube Downloader to download the YouTube videos on your computer. This is a free software. You can use this software to search for and view the YouTube videos you want to download and then download them to your computer.
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Here is a guide on how to use this software: How to Easily and Quickly Download YouTube Videos for Free.
About The Author
Position: Columnist
Stella is an experienced tech writer who specializes in creating comprehensive articles to help users download videos and resolve various issues related to YouTube. Her commitment to delivering accurate and up-to-date information to enhance users’ YouTube experience.