One of the country’s most prestigious cultural honors, since 1985 the Helen Hayes Awards has celebrated outstanding achievement in over 80 professional theatres throughout the Washington metropolitan area. Named for the legendary First Lady of the American Theatre, nominated artists and companies exemplify the excellence found on all Washington stages, and therefore propel Washington as a nationally and internationally recognized theatre town.

The Helen Hayes Awards honors and celebrates that work and, by so doing, brings national attention to our region's greatest cultural resource. Artistic achievement is awarded in 26 categories as well as two special awards: The Helen Hayes Tribute for an extraordinary contribution to the American theatre and The Washington Post Award for Innovative Leadership in the Theatre Community. Every year, artistic, corporate, philanthropic, social, and political leaders join together to honor these collective efforts which have established Washington as the second most prolific theatre town in the country.