Pulitzer Prize for Drama

Definition

The Pulitzer Prize for Drama is an esteemed award presented annually to a distinguished play written by an American playwright. This award recognizes the excellence of theatrical works and serves as a benchmark for success within the realm of modern theater. Winning this prize can significantly elevate a playwright's career, leading to increased visibility and opportunities in the competitive field of drama.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Pulitzer Prize for Drama was first awarded in 1917, with the initial recipient being Eugene O'Neill for his play 'Beyond the Horizon.'
2. To be eligible for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, a play must have premiered in the United States during the calendar year prior to the award presentation.
3. The prize aims to honor works that demonstrate a high standard of artistic merit and a profound impact on American culture and society.
4. Some notable winners include Tennessee Williams, Arthur Miller, and August Wilson, whose works have left lasting legacies in modern theater.
5. The selection process involves juries made up of theater professionals who evaluate submitted plays and recommend finalists to the Pulitzer board.

Review Questions

• How has winning the Pulitzer Prize for Drama influenced the careers of American playwrights?
  • Winning the Pulitzer Prize for Drama can dramatically change a playwright's career by providing recognition that can lead to more productions, greater financial success, and increased opportunities for collaboration. For example, playwrights like Lynn Nottage and David Mamet have gained substantial acclaim and opportunities after receiving this prestigious award. The prize not only boosts their visibility but also validates their work within the competitive landscape of American theater.
• Discuss the criteria used in selecting winners for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and its significance in modern theater.
  • The criteria for selecting winners of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama focus on artistic merit, originality, and cultural impact. Plays must premiere in the U.S. during the eligibility year and showcase themes relevant to contemporary society. This significance lies in its ability to highlight works that challenge norms, provoke thought, and reflect societal issues, thereby contributing to ongoing conversations within modern theater and society at large.
• Evaluate the impact of notable winners of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama on American culture and theater as a whole.
  • Notable winners of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama have significantly shaped American culture by addressing critical social issues through their works. For instance, plays like 'A Raisin in the Sun' by Lorraine Hansberry not only broke ground in terms of representation but also sparked dialogue around race relations in America. The influence of these playwrights extends beyond theater into broader cultural discussions, helping to foster understanding and empathy while pushing artistic boundaries in modern storytelling.

Related terms

American Theatre Wing: An organization that supports and promotes American theater through various programs, including the Tony Awards.

Tony Awards: A set of annual awards recognizing excellence in live Broadway theater, often considered the highest honor in the American theater community.

Contemporary Playwrights: Writers who create plays that reflect modern themes and issues, often pushing boundaries and exploring diverse narratives.