Washington D.C— On Sunday, April 6, an intimate gathering of theatre lovers, industry leaders, and longtime supporters filled the elegant home of the Honorable Carol Schwartz in Washington, D.C., for a very special evening. The occasion? A preview of the upcoming 2025 Helen Hayes Awards, hosted by Carol Schwartz herself and Jan Du Plain, Chair of the Helen Hayes Awards Committee.
Carol opened her home—and the evening—with warmth and candor. With sweeping views of the city as a backdrop, she welcomed guests and reaffirmed her deep connection to the theatre community. “We are gathered here for a wonderful cause,” she began. “The Helen Hayes Awards and Theatre Washington—two groups that truly enrich this city.” D.C. theatre remains strong and vibrant.
Chris Wingert, music director for the Helen Hayes Awards, followed with updates on the 2025 ceremony. He announced that Felicia Curry would return as a host, joined by new co-host Mike Millan. “Michael played Hysterium in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum,” Wingert noted, offering a glimpse into the talent and personality that audiences can expect on May 19 at The Anthem.
Then came the moment everyone leaned in for—a performance by ensemble member Alex De Bard, accompanied by Wingert on piano. Her voice filled the room, turning a private gathering into an impromptu concert hall. The applause was loud, heartfelt, and immediate.
Helen Hayes Awards: Sneak a Peak
— DiplomaticWatch (@Diplo_Watch) April 9, 2025
The moment everyone leaned in for—Alex De Bard took the spotlight, with Chris Wingert at the piano, delivering a performance that held the room in quiet awe. @JanDuPlain @Wecaa_official @KimberlyBassett @PatrickRealiza @theatreWash @GloballyAJM… pic.twitter.com/0ZEhCJq4MJ
Amy Austin took the floor next, reflecting on the Helen Hayes Awards as a moment when the entire D.C. theatre community comes together to recognize its craft, vision, and voice. She revealed that this year’s tribute will go to Robert Hooks, a trailblazer in American theatre and founder of The Negro Ensemble Company. Hooks also created two influential Black theatre companies: the D.C. Black Repertory Company and New York’s Group Theatre Workshop. She also gave a nod to Theatre Week, which offers accessible ticket prices and brings new audiences into local theatres.
Jan Du Plain brought her energy and vision to the room. Now in her third year as Chair, she described theatre as a space for pause and reflection. “Theater is where we go to rest, to connect,” she said. She recognized board members, committee members, and sponsors who make the awards possible. Dr. Judy, a theatre investor from New York, received special mention for her commitment to both Broadway and D.C. stages. Jan also reflected on Helen Hayes herself—a legendary figure and a Washington native—reminding everyone that D.C. holds its own as a theatre capital.
“We hope everyone will join the Helen Hayes Host committee, buy tickets or a sponsorship table or donate to such a worthy cause now…before we sell out. You won’t want to miss the greatest theatrical evening for the year in DC.” Jan expressed.
As the event wound down, Carol returned to the spotlight to share a final thought: “As a politician, I probably went to every black-tie affair Washington ever had. And I’ll tell you, the best one I ever went to was the Helen Hayes Awards.” She invited guests to head to her rooftop to enjoy the view as conversations continued and connections deepened.
This exclusive evening wasn’t just about what’s next—it was about who we are. A theatre community that adapts, thrives, and brings people together through shared experiences. And come Monday, May 19, that spirit will be on full display at The Anthem for the 41st Helen Hayes Awards.
Theatre Washington announced the nominees on February 10 at Theater J at the Edlavich DCJCC, drawing attention to 165 eligible productions across 41 categories. With 57 musicals, 108 plays, and 37 world premieres evaluated by 51 vetted judges, the upcoming awards promise an unforgettable showcase of the region’s theatrical excellence.
Save the date. On May 19, the curtains rise on what promises to be the greatest show in Washington, D.C.—a night of music, art, style, and unfiltered passion for the stage.
