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Best Online Casinos (2023) Ranked By Bonuses, Games, and More

Check out our article and discover the best online casinos ranked by generous bonuses, a variety of games, and more.

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Best Online Casinos in 2023: Top Online Casinos for Bonuses, Variety of Games, and User Experience

The best online casinos offer users all the best casino games and the most exciting bonuses and are completely safe for gamblers. The hard thing, however, is deciding which one to use. 

We’re there to help:

Our team of expert gamblers did the hard work for you, and we found Slots.lv to be the best option overall – especially if you are a slots fan.

Let’s find out more below.

Best Online Casinos

1. Slots.lv – Best Online Casino Overall

Pros:

  • Welcome bonus of up to $5,000
  • Instant play and downloadable game options
  • Amazing mobile compatibility
  • Referral bonuses

Cons:

  • Limited banking options

If you love slot machines as much as we do, you should take a look at Slots.lv and what it has to offer. We found that this online casino is, by far, the best option for slot fans!

License & Reputation: 4.65/5

Slots.lv is certified by iTechLabs, one of the leading accredited testing laboratories for certification and Quality Assurance. It’s something like eCOGRA if you’re more familiar with it. That said, this online casino is all good in terms of game fairness and online casino safety.

Game Selection: 4.85/5

If you’re more of an online slot player, then this gambling site is for you. Slots.lv offers some of the popular high RTP slots like Mythic Wolf, Monster Manor, and Cat Kingdom.

Most of the games you’ll find here are from software providers like RTG, Rival Gaming, Betsoft Gaming, Spinomenal, Woohoo Games, and others.

Bonuses & Rewards: 4.65/5

New players at Slots.lv are in for a treat, and if you’re one of them, you can get welcome bonuses of up to $7,500 on your first nine deposits. In addition, on your first crypto deposit, you’ll get a 300% match bonus up to $1,500.

After that, you’ll be eligible to get a 150% deposit match bonus of up to $750 each on your next eight crypto deposits.

Don’t worry if you don’t have Bitcoin because you can still get deposit match bonuses. Deposit with your preferred fiat currency and get a 200% deposit bonus of up to $1,000. Then, on your next eight deposits, you’re eligible for a 100% bonus of up to $500 each – so the fiat welcome bonus is up to $5,000 in total!

Banking Options: 4.8/5

Even if Slots.lv only has a few payment methods you can use for deposits and withdrawals, transactions here are completely free of all fees.

Here are some of the deposit options you have at this online casino:

  • Visa, MasterCard, American Express: Minimum $20 and up to $500
  • Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash: Minimum $10 and up to $5,000
  • MatchPay: $20 to $1,000

Meanwhile, here are your options for requesting payouts, including the withdrawal limits:

  • Check by Courier: Minimum $50 to $2,000 (or up to $3,000 for VIP users)
  • Bank Wire and Credit Card: Minimum $1,500, max $2,000 (or up to $9,500 for VIP users)
  • Cryptocurrencies: Minimum $50, maximum $2,500 (or up to $9,500 for VIP users)

Customer Support: 4.8/5

Should you have any queries or concerns, the casino’s customer support team is available 24/7 via live chat. Like Red Dog Casino, this website also has a phone number you can call, which you can call any time.

Click here to join Slots.lv and start playing the best slot games now.

2. Ignition – Best Online Casino for Poker

Pros:

  • Casino and poker bonuses combined bonus of up to $3,000
  • Regular poker tournaments
  • Relatively low wagering requirements
  • Virtual sports available

Cons:

  • No e-wallet options for banking
  • Not all games are playable on mobile

Ignition Casino is mostly popular among poker players, but it’s an all-around casino site where you can play other casino games, too.

So, if you enjoy competing in poker tournaments while playing different casino games on the side, then go ahead and sign up for a new account at Ignition.

License & Reputation: 4.85/5

Ignition carries a Curacao gaming license and has been around since 2016. An online casino wouldn’t last a couple of years if it didn’t have loyal users!

Most customers like that Ignition has great poker tables and processes payouts in just a few hours. We found that Ignition’s reputation is especially good when it comes to poker players.

Game Selection: 4.9/5

Ignition offers a hundred real money casino games, including online slots, baccarat, roulette, bingo, keno, blackjack, live dealer games, and an amazing section of poker.

While it doesn’t have thousands of online casino site games to offer, it has teamed up with various casino software providers, so variety isn’t an issue here.

Some of the games you’ll find here are from developers like RealTime Gaming, Betsoft, Genesis Gaming, and Spinomenal.

Bonuses & Rewards: 4.95/5

Regarding bonuses, new and existing players at Ignition have lots to enjoy. If you’re new, you’re eligible to use the crypto bonus code IGWPCB150 for a 150% casino bonus and another 150% poker bonus that can give you up to $3,000 in bonus funds combined.

No Crypto? No problem!

You can still get a welcome bonus with the code IGWPCB100. This can give you a combined casino and poker bonus of up to $2,000.

We found that this is not all you can get since Ignition offers weekly poker freerolls, reload bonuses, and crypto promos. You can also earn Ignition Miles or points for every bet you place, which you can use to claim exclusive bonuses and rewards.

Banking Options: 4.85/5

This online casino accepts both crypto and fiat currencies for deposits and withdrawals. Here are the options you can choose from whenever you want to deposit to your casino account:

  • Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Bitcoin SV, Litecoin – $20 to $1,500
  • Ethereum – $10 to $5,000
  • Voucher – $50 to $5,000
  • Visa and MasterCard – $20 to $1,500
  • MatchPay – $20 to $1,000

Your options for requesting payouts are the same, but here are the payout limits and how often you can submit a request:

  • Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin – $10; no max limit and once per 3 days
  • Ethereum – $50 to $9,500; once per 3 days
  • Voucher – $10 to $3,000; no frequency limit
  • Check by Courier – $100 to $3000; once every week
  • MatchPay – $20 to $1,000; twice per calendar day

Customer Support: 4.9/5

When reviewing Ignition, we found that this casino has a detailed FAQ page which is handy for common concerns, but if you need more help, you can also check the casino forum or send an email via the site’s contact form.

You can also chat with the casino’s live reps, which are available 24/7.

Click here to join Ignition Casino and score your $3,000 welcome package.

3. Red Dog – Most Generous Bonuses of All Online Casinos

Pros:

  • Generous welcome package with free spins
  • All games have free-play versions
  • Completely free transactions
  • Excellent customer service
  • No live dealer section

Cons:

  • Higher minimum withdrawal
  • No sports betting

Red Dog is a famous online casino with a lot to offer to its users. However, what we like the most about Red Dog are its amazing bonuses and promotions. Let’s see exactly what Red Dog has in store.

License & Reputation: 4.75/5

Red Dog Casino holds a Curacao eGaming license, and it’s been around since 2011. It’s managed by Harp Meda BV, the people behind another popular online casino and sportsbook, Bovada.

All in all, Red Dog has an amazing reputation in the online gambling world – making it a great option for players of all interests.

Game Selection: 4.85/5

There are over 150 real money games you can play at Red Dog, most of which are from RealTime Gaming. Another casino software provider you can find here is Visionary Gaming – it takes care of the live dealer section at Red Dog.

Bonuses & Rewards: 4.9/5

This is what Red Dog Casino is great for. If you’re new to this website, you can use the bonus code ADORABLE to get a 240% casino bonus plus 40 free spins on Spring Wilds

The minimum deposit to qualify for this bonus is $10, but for crypto, Neosurf, and Flexepin depositors, the deposit should be at least $20. You can also earn comp points for every game you play at this casino. Save these points and wait till you can redeem a cash bonus or other exclusive promos.

We also found that there are many other bonuses and promotions available for the users of Red Dog. You can check out their website for more information about it.

Banking Options: 4.85/5

There are a few banking options you can use at Red Dog. For deposits, you can use the following banking options:

  • Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Ethereum: $20 (no max limit)
  • Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express: $30 to $1,000
  • Tether: $40 (no max limit)
  • Flexepin: $20 to $500
  • Neosurf: $10 to $250

If you’re ready to get your winnings, options are limited but convenient. Here’s how long payouts take to be processed at Red Dog:

  • Credit Card: Processed in 3 to 4 business days
  • Bank Wire: Takes up to 5 business days
  • Bitcoin: Get your wins in just 1 to 3 business days

Customer Support: 4.85/5

Red Dog has a 24/7 support team you can chat with for queries and concerns. You can also email them for more detailed information. There also is a dedicated phone line available.

You can find out more about Red Dog Casino and its bonuses by clicking here.

4. Bitstarz – Best Online Casino for Crypto Users

Pros:

  • 4,000+ casino games to choose from
  • Easy-to-use casino website
  • Exclusive Bitstarz games
  • Instant payouts

Cons:

  • No sportsbook

Looking for the best online casino for crypto gamblers? Well, you should definitely check out what Bitstarz has in store.

License & Reputation: 4.75/5

Bitstarz has a Curacao gaming license and was launched in 2014. Aside from already having years of experience in the online casino industry, it’s also managed by Dama NV.

Also, Bitstarz has an amazing reputation among players. In addition, over the years, it has won numerous awards for being a leading online casino for crypto gamblers.

Game Selection: 4.8/5

The over 4000 casino games you can play at Bitstarz are from innumerable casino software providers, including BGaming, Booming Games, 4 The Player, Northern Lights, and Yggdrasil. There are also Bitstarz originals you can play, like Plinko and Limbo.

Bonuses & Rewards: 4.75/5

All new players at Bitstarz are eligible to get the casino’s welcome package of up to 5BTC plus about 200 free spins.

The free spins will be credited to your account in increments. You’ll get 20 instant free spins after your first deposit. The rest will be credited to your account 20 per day every 24 hours until you get all 180.

On top of all that, Bitstarz also offers weekly freerolls, slot tournaments, table wars, and reload bonuses you can redeem if you want more rewards.

Banking Options: 4.65/5

Bitstarz only accepts crypto payments, so keep this in mind before you create an account. This might be a turn-off for some players, but transactions here, including payouts, are free and processed instantly.

Customer Support: 4.85/5

The customer support team of Bitstarz is always there to give you the necessary help you might need. You can reach out by email or live chat.

Find out more about Bitstarz and its latest bonuses by following this link.

5. Super Slots – Best Online Casino for Progressive Jackpot Slots

Pros:

  • $6,000 welcome bonus
  • Lots of generous bonuses are available
  • High-quality casino games
  • Responsive customer support

Cons:

  • Not all games are playable on mobile

The name of this online casino should tell you all. It’s another excellent gambling site that slot players will immediately love, but where it shines the most is the amazing progressive jackpot section that it has in store.

License & Reputation: 4.65/5

We found that Super Slots comes with an amazing reputation in the online gambling world. It has been around for some time now and is known for providing users with safe and secure services.

Game Selection: 4.65/5

You can play over 300 games at Super Slots from software providers like Betsoft, Dragon Gaming, Nucleus Gaming, Magma Gaming, Concept Gaming, and Fresh Deck Solutions.

This online casino has slots, video poker games, progressive jackpots, specialty games, and live dealer options, so it has all the casino essentials to make it a worthwhile choice.

Bonuses & Rewards: 4.85/5

This online casino site is rich in casino bonuses. New casino players can use the code SS250 on their first deposit for a 250% bonus up to $1,000.

After using this code, you can then use the code SS100 on your next five deposits and get a 100% bonus of up to $1,000 each time. That’s a total of $6,000 casino welcome bonuses you can get.

If you’re a crypto player on the site, you can use the promo code CRYPTO400 on your first deposit to get a bonus of up to $4,000. Other than that, Super Slots has regular giveaways, weekly promos, and reload bonuses you can claim.

Banking Options: 4.7/5

The most convenient payment options are offered at Super Slots, and whether you want to use fiat or crypto, you are welcome here.

Here’s a quick guide to all the accepted deposit and payout methods you can use:

  • Money Orders
  • Bank Wire Transfers
  • Cashiers Check
  • Check by Courier
  • Person to Person
  • Credit and Debit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)

The minimum deposit is $25 for USD players, while the lowest minimum withdrawable amount for payout is $50 via Person to Person. Payouts via Money Order, Bank Wire Transfer, and check require at least $500.

Want to play using your crypto? Go for it! This online casino accepts a great variety of them.

Customer Support: 4.75/5

You can chat with Super Slots Casino’s support team anytime since they are available 24/7. No need to log in to start a chat session – just go to the casino’s Contact Us page. You can also use email support.

Click here to get a welcome bonus of up to $6,000 that you can use to play at Super Slots.

Best Online Casino Sites – Runners-up:

Ranking Methodology for the Best Online Casinos

License & Reputation

As much as possible, we stuck with real money online casinos that carry an online gambling license. We only picked the most trusted online casino sites and looked at what real players, just like us, have to say so we can give you a heads-up on what you should be on the lookout for.

Game Selection:

Playing the same games over and over again is no fun, so we only chose online gambling sites that can offer variety. It’s always a good sign if a casino doesn’t just have online slots to offer. Other table games should be part of their catalogs too.

Bonuses & Rewards:

We want to help you maximize your gaming fun, and one of the best ways you can do so is by redeeming bonuses and earning rewards. Many online casinos offer generous welcome bonuses, but we also want existing players to be treated with awesome rewards.

Banking:

We believe that the best online casinos should offer users a variety of banking options. Also, we took a look at the banking conditions of online casinos.

Customer Support:

The top online casinos should know how to treat loyal or new customers. Therefore, the online gambling sites on our list have 24/7 support available to get you the easiest way possible.

Guide to the Best Online Casino Sites

Is It Safe to Play at Best Online Casinos?

It is completely safe to play at online casinos, but you should always take extra steps to ensure your online safety.

All the online casinos that we have listed in our article are completely safe to use.

What Are the Most Popular Online Casino Games?

Some of the most popular casino games include slot machines, progressive jackpots, blackjack, roulette, craps, online poker, and baccarat.

How Do I Choose the Best Online Casino Sites For Me?

To choose the best online casino sites for yourself, you need to consider a few factors. This includes what payment options are available at a casino and what games you can play. Some gamblers also consider the bonuses and promotions available.

What Are the Best Online Casinos To Use?

After detailed research, we found these five to be online casinos:

Comparing the Best Top 5 Online Casinos

Slots.lv: Win big and play the best online slots with the highest RTP at Slots.lv. Sign up at Slots.lv and get a welcome bonus of up to $5,000.

Ignition: This is our top online casino overall. It offers a generous welcome package of up to $3,000 for poker and casino, as well as additional promotions that are worth checking out. Ignition is also well-known for its amazing poker section.

Red Dog: Can’t get enough of the best RTG slot games? Register at Red Dog and use the code ADORABLE for a 240% casino bonus and 40 free spins on Spring Wilds.

Bitstarz: This is a well-known crypto casino that has a lot in store. Sign up for a new account and get a casino package that can give you up to 5 BTC on your first four deposits.

Super Slots: If you are looking for the best casino for progressive jackpot slots, this is the best option for you. Make your first deposit with the promo code SS250 and get a 250% bonus of up to $1,000 and more on your next five deposits.

How to Get Started at an Online Casino Site

If you’ve never joined an online casino before, you might think it’s a tedious task, but not at all! Nowadays, signing up at an online casino is a walk in the park. It only takes a few minutes, and you won’t have to share much information immediately.

1. Start Registration for a New Casino Account

2. Make a Deposit & Activate Your Welcome Bonus

  • Select a welcome bonus or enter a promo code
  • Choose your preferred deposit method
  • Enter the amount you’d like to deposit and key in your banking details
  • Click Deposit and start playing to win real money

3. Start Playing Your Favorite Casino Games

  • Once your account is created, you can make a deposit and start gambling

So, What Are the Best Online Casinos to Use?

Choosing which online casino to use is not an easy task; it can be quite difficult to decide what to do.

After detailed research and overview, we found Slots.lv to be the best overall online casino to use. However, there are many others that might be worth a try – we have listed and reviewed each one of them one by one.

No matter which online casino you decide to pick, make sure to always gamble responsibly.

DISCLAIMER: 18+ only. Online gambling comes with many risks. Players are advised to gamble responsibly and only use funds they can afford to lose. Remember, gambling is only intended for entertainment purposes and is not a solution to any financial difficulties.

Gambling laws and policies vary from one region to another. Some sites mentioned in this review may not be accessible in your area. Always do your due diligence and check your local gambling policies. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

If you suspect you’re becoming addicted to gambling, seek help immediately by contacting the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

The following resources may be helpful as well:

 

Broadway

The New Dramatists’ 71st Annual Benefit Luncheon and You are There

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On Tuesday the New Dramatists’ 71st Annual Benefit Luncheon was held at the New York Marriott Marquis, 1535 Broadway, Broadway ballroom 6th floor.

Suzan-Lori-Parks photo by Michael Hull

Tony® Honor recipient and the nation’s premier playwright development laboratory, was honored with its 2023 Distinguished Achievement Award at their 71st Annual Spring Luncheon Tribute

Kenny Leon photo by Michael Hull

Tony Award winner, Kenny Leon, director of Parks’ recent revival of Topdog/Underdog lead the tributes.

photo by Michael Hull

In Attendance were:

Ben Platt (Parade) photo by Michael Hull

Annaleigh Ashford  (Sweeney Todd) photo by Michael Hull

Brandon Uranowitz (Leopoldstadt) photo by Michael Hull

J. Harrison Ghee  (Some Like It Hot) photo by Michael Hull

Kevin Cahoon (Shucked) photo by Michael Hull

Natasha Yvette Williams  (Some Like It Hot) photo by Michael Hull

Wayne Cilento (Dancin’) photo by Michael Hull

Betsy Wolfe (& Juliet) and Linedy Genao (Bad Cinderella) photo by Michael Hull

Justin Cooley (Kimberly Akimbo), Ben Platt (Parade) and  Colton Ryan (New York, New York) photo by Michael Hull

Justin Cooley (Kimberly Akimbo), Brian Stokes Mitchell, Suzan-Lori Parks, Victoria Clark (Kimberly Akimbo) and Bonnie Milligan (Kimberly Akimbo) at The New Dramatists Spring Luncheon. photo by Michael Hull

Also Artistic Director Emily Morse and Executive Director Joel Ruark,

Executive Director Joel Ruark photo by Michael Hull

Jeannie Tessori photo by Michael Hull

Hiran Abeysekera (Life of Pi), Betsy Aidem (Leopoldstadt), Steven Boyer (Kimberly Akimbo), Faye Castelow (Leopoldstadt), Rashad Chambers (Topdog/Underdog), Ben Davis (New York, New York), Eisa Davis (New York, New York), Micaela Diamond (Parade), Delia Ephron (Love Loss & What I Wore), Corey Hawkins (Topdog/Underdog), Jessica Hecht (Summer, 1976), Amy Herzog (A Doll’s House), Robert Horn (Shucked),  Mark Jacoby (A Beautiful Noise, The Neil Diamond Musical), LaChanze (Here Lies Love, Kimberly Akimbo), event co-chair   Caissie Levy (Leopoldstadt), Judith Light (Other Desert Cities), David Lindsay-Abaire (Kimberly Akimbo), Neil Meron (Some Like It Hot), Alli Mauzey (Kimberly Akimbo), Lauren Mitchell (A Bronx Tale), Arian Moayed (A Doll’s House), Casey Nicholaw (Some Like It Hot), Linda Powell (A Beautiful Noise, The Neil Diamond Musical), Daryl Roth (Kinky Boots), Sarah Ruhl (in The Next Room), Stark Sands (& Juliet), Miriam Silverman (The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window), Marcel Spears (Fat Ham), Katy Sullivan (Cost of Living), David Stone (Wicked), Jeanine Tesori (Kimberly Akimbo), Paula Vogel (How I Learned To Drive), Sharon Washington (New York, New York), Scott WIttman (Some Like It Hot), Kara Young (Cost of Living), David Zayas (Cost of Living).

Performing were:

Suzan-Lori-Parks photo by Michael Hull

Daniel Fulton, Orville Mendoza, Suzan-Lori-Parks, Lauren Molina and Leland Fowler photo by Michael Hull

Brandon and Jason Dirden photo by Michael Hull

New Dramatists resident playwrights at The New Dramatists Spring Luncheon. photo by Michael Hull

Suzan-Lori-Parks and New Dramatists resident playwrights at The New Dramatists Spring Luncheon. photo by Michael Hull

Suzan-Lori-Parks New Dramatists resident playwrights at The New Dramatists Spring Luncheon. photo by Michael Hull

Suzan-Lori-Parks photo by Michael Hull

Tony Kushner photo by Michael Hull

NYC Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams, Suzan-Lori-Parks photo by Michael Hull

Stay tuned for our interviews.

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Events

The 2023 Excellence in Theatre Education Award

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The Tony Awards and Carnegie Mellon University announced today that theatre director/teacher Jason Zembuch Young of South Plantation High School in Plantation, Florida, will receive the 2023 Excellence in Theatre Education Award.

The Excellence in Theatre Education Award was co-founded in 2014 by the Tony Awards and CMU to recognize top K-12 drama teachers and to celebrate arts education. Zembuch Young will receive his award at The 76th Annual Tony Awards on Sunday, June 11, at the historic United Palace in New York City’s Washington Heights.

Making theatre accessible for all audiences has been the hallmark of Zembuch Young’s 20 years as a drama teacher. Each year, he produces two full-length mainstage productions, a play and a musical, in both voice and American Sign Language (ASL). As an advocate for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) population, Zembuch Young has reshaped policies to provide interpreters during and after school to teach his hearing and DHH actors and crew how to communicate and perform.

“As a high school theatre teacher, I’ve had the opportunity to work with many students from different backgrounds with varying exceptionalities. When we are inclusive in the theatre, everyone is better for it.  Everyone deserves to have a voice,” said Zembuch Young.  “It is in the theatre that we have an opportunity to give our students a platform to use that voice, regardless of who they are, where they come from, or what language they use to communicate.”

Zembuch Young runs a one-person, zero-budget public school theatre department with upwards of 150 students participating in performances. He also operates a six-week summer-stock theatre camp for elementary and middle school students, using high school drama students as counselors and mentors. With his South Plantation School students, he participates in International Thespian district and state competitions and is an eight-time South Florida CAPPIE winner for Best Play or Musical. Zembuch Young fundraises annually to provide four $1,000 scholarships to help graduating seniors.

Helping others overcome disability or life circumstances doesn’t stop when the school bell rings for Zembuch Young.  He and his husband Michael have fostered more than 35 abused and underprivileged children.  He’s facilitated the adoption of foster kids in his care and became an adoptive parent himself. He offers free admission to all performances for foster families so that they can experience live theatre.

A panel of theatre experts from the American Theatre Wing, The Broadway League and Carnegie Mellon University selected Zembuch Young from a nationwide call for entries.

“We are thrilled to present the 2023 Excellence in Theatre Education Award to Jason Zembuch Young,” said Charlotte St. Martin, President of The Broadway League, and Heather Hitchens, President and CEO of the American Theatre Wing. “Jason’s exceptional commitment to empowering every student to make and be part of theatre has won the hearts and appreciation of his local community and now the Broadway community, as well.”

The Excellence in Theatre Education Award recognizes a K-12 theatre educator in the U.S. who has demonstrated exemplary impact on the lives of students and who embodies the highest standards of the profession. Zembuch Young will receive $10,000 for South Plantation High School’s theatre program and tickets to The Tony Awards and Gala. Zembuch Young’s students will also receive a visiting Master Class taught by CMU Drama professors.

“New trails are blazed when teachers challenge paradigms in the name of art, expression and accessibility,” said Carnegie Mellon University President Farnam Jahanian. “Jason Zembuch Young is an extraordinary educator who has used the power of theatre to profoundly impact the lives of his students. CMU is proud to present this award to Jason in recognition of his positive influence and remarkable achievements.”

The American Theatre Wing’s 76th Annual Tony Awards, presented by The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing, will air LIVE on Sunday, June 11, 2023 from the historic United Palace in Washington Heights in New York City from 8:00-11:00 PM, ET/5:00-8:00 PM, PT on the CBS Television Network, and streaming live and on demand on Paramount+.

 

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Broadway

The New Dramatists’ 71st Annual Benefit Luncheon and You Are There

Published

on

On Tuesday the New Dramatists’ 71st Annual Benefit Luncheon was held at the New York Marriott Marquis, 1535 Broadway, Broadway ballroom 6th floor.

Suzan-Lori-Parks photo by Michael Hull

Tony® Honor recipient and the nation’s premier playwright development laboratory, was honored with its 2023 Distinguished Achievement Award at their 71st Annual Spring Luncheon Tribute

Kenny Leon photo by Michael Hull

Tony Award winner, Kenny Leon, director of Parks’ recent revival of Topdog/Underdog lead the tributes.

photo by Michael Hull

In Attendance were:

Ben Platt (Parade) photo by Michael Hull

Annaleigh Ashford  (Sweeney Todd) photo by Michael Hull

Brandon Uranowitz (Leopoldstadt) photo by Michael Hull

J. Harrison Ghee  (Some Like It Hot) photo by Michael Hull

Kevin Cahoon (Shucked) photo by Michael Hull

Natasha Yvette Williams  (Some Like It Hot) photo by Michael Hull

Wayne Cilento (Dancin’) photo by Michael Hull

Betsy Wolfe (& Juliet) and Linedy Genao (Bad Cinderella) photo by Michael Hull

Justin Cooley (Kimberly Akimbo), Ben Platt (Parade) and  Colton Ryan (New York, New York) photo by Michael Hull

Justin Cooley (Kimberly Akimbo), Brian Stokes Mitchell, Suzan-Lori Parks, Victoria Clark (Kimberly Akimbo) and Bonnie Milligan (Kimberly Akimbo) at The New Dramatists Spring Luncheon. photo by Michael Hull

Also Artistic Director Emily Morse and Executive Director Joel Ruark,

Executive Director Joel Ruark photo by Michael Hull

Jeannie Tessori photo by Michael Hull

Hiran Abeysekera (Life of Pi), Betsy Aidem (Leopoldstadt), Steven Boyer (Kimberly Akimbo), Faye Castelow (Leopoldstadt), Rashad Chambers (Topdog/Underdog), Ben Davis (New York, New York), Eisa Davis (New York, New York), Micaela Diamond (Parade), Delia Ephron (Love Loss & What I Wore), Corey Hawkins (Topdog/Underdog), Jessica Hecht (Summer, 1976), Amy Herzog (A Doll’s House), Robert Horn (Shucked),  Mark Jacoby (A Beautiful Noise, The Neil Diamond Musical), LaChanze (Here Lies Love, Kimberly Akimbo), event co-chair   Caissie Levy (Leopoldstadt), Judith Light (Other Desert Cities), David Lindsay-Abaire (Kimberly Akimbo), Neil Meron (Some Like It Hot), Alli Mauzey (Kimberly Akimbo), Lauren Mitchell (A Bronx Tale), Arian Moayed (A Doll’s House), Casey Nicholaw (Some Like It Hot), Linda Powell (A Beautiful Noise, The Neil Diamond Musical), Daryl Roth (Kinky Boots), Sarah Ruhl (in The Next Room), Stark Sands (& Juliet), Miriam Silverman (The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window), Marcel Spears (Fat Ham), Katy Sullivan (Cost of Living), David Stone (Wicked), Jeanine Tesori (Kimberly Akimbo), Paula Vogel (How I Learned To Drive), Sharon Washington (New York, New York), Scott WIttman (Some Like It Hot), Kara Young (Cost of Living), David Zayas (Cost of Living).

Performing were:

Suzan-Lori-Parks photo by Michael Hull

Daniel Fulton, Orville Mendoza, Suzan-Lori-Parks, Lauren Molina and Leland Fowler photo by Michael Hull

Brandon and Jason Dirden photo by Michael Hull

New Dramatists resident playwrights at The New Dramatists Spring Luncheon. photo by Michael Hull

Suzan-Lori-Parks and New Dramatists resident playwrights at The New Dramatists Spring Luncheon. photo by Michael Hull

Suzan-Lori-Parks New Dramatists resident playwrights at The New Dramatists Spring Luncheon. photo by Michael Hull

Suzan-Lori-Parks photo by Michael Hull

Tony Kushner photo by Michael Hull

NYC Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams, Suzan-Lori-Parks photo by Michael Hull

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Broadway

And The Winners of The 2023 Drama Desk Awards Are ………

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The 2023 67th Drama Desk Awards, honoring artistic excellence on Broadway, Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway, will take place on June 6 at Sardi’s Restaurant. Today the winners were announced.

Outstanding Play: “Leopoldstadt,” by Tom Stoppard

Outstanding Musical: “Some Like it Hot”

Outstanding Revival of a Play: “The Piano Lesson”

Outstanding Revival of a Musical: “Parade”

Outstanding Lead Performance in a Play: Jessica Chastain, “A Doll’s House” and Sean Hayes, “Good Night, Oscar”

Outstanding Lead Performance in a Musical: Annaleigh Ashford, “Sweeney Todd”
and J. Harrison Ghee, “Some Like it Hot”

Outstanding Featured Performance in a Play: Miriam Silverman, “The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window,” Brooklyn Academy of Music and Brandon Uranowitz, “Leopoldstadt”

Outstanding Featured Performance in a Musical: Kevin Del Aguila, “Some Like it Hot” and Alex Newell, “Shucked”

Outstanding Direction of a Play: Max Webster, “Life of Pi”

Outstanding Direction of a Musical: Thomas Kail, “Sweeney Todd”

Outstanding Choreography: Casey Nicholaw, “Some Like it Hot”

Outstanding Music: Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally, “Shucked”

Outstanding Lyrics: Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman, “Some Like it Hot”

Outstanding Book of a Musical: Matthew López and Amber Ruffin, “Some Like it Hot”

Outstanding Orchestrations: Charlie Rosen and Bryan Carter, “Some Like it Hot”

Outstanding Music in a Play: Suzan-Lori Parks, “Plays for the Plague Year,” The Public Theater

Outstanding Scenic Design of a Play: Tim Hatley, “Life of Pi”

Outstanding Scenic Design of a Musical: Beowulf Boritt, “New York, New York”

Outstanding Costume Design of a Play: Emilio Sosa, “Ain’t No Mo’”

Outstanding Costume Design of a Musical: Gregg Barnes, “Some Like it Hot”

Outstanding Lighting Design of a Play: Natasha Chivers and Willie Williams (video), “Prima Facie”

Outstanding Lighting Design of a Musical: Natasha Katz, “Sweeney Todd”

Outstanding Projection and Video Design: Andrzej Goulding, “Life of Pi”

Outstanding Sound Design of a Play: Ben & Max Ringham, “A Doll’s House”

Outstanding Sound Design of a Musical: Scott Lehrer and Alex Neumann, “Into the Woods”

Outstanding Wig and Hair: Mia M. Neal, “Ain’t No Mo’”

Outstanding Solo Performance: Jodie Comer, “Prima Facie”

Unique Theatrical Experience: “Peter Pan Goes Wrong”

Outstanding Fight Choreography: B.H. Barry, “Camelot”

Outstanding Adaptation: “A Doll’s House,” by Amy Herzog

Outstanding Puppetry: Nick Barnes and Finn Caldwell, “Life of Pi”

Shows with multiple wins

Some Like It Hot: 8

Life of Pi: 4

A Doll’s House: 3

Sweeney Todd: 3

Ain’t No Mo’: 2

Leopoldstadt: 2

Prima Facie: 2

Shucked: 2

Special Awards

Harold Prince Lifetime Achievement Award

Stephen McKinley Henderson has been bringing in-depth, gripping portrayals of memorable characters to the stage for over four decades. With his return to Broadway this season as Pops in “Between Riverside and Crazy,” which the Drama Desk previously nominated in 2015, this year’s Harold Prince Lifetime Achievement Award marks Henderson’s role in this powerful production as a celebration of his brilliant career.

Ensemble Award

The cast of Soho Rep’s “Public Obscenities” – Tashnuva Anan, Abrar Haque, Golam Sarwar Harun, Gargi Mukherjee, NaFis, Jakeem Dante Powell, and Debashis Roy Chowdhury – embodied the transnational world of Shayok Misha Chowdhury’s bilingual play with memorable authenticity, remarkable specificity, and extraordinary warmth.

Sam Norkin Off-Broadway Award

From his standout performance in american (tele)visions, to writing and performing the autobiographical “Dark Disabled Stories,” Ryan J. Haddad’s work this season has expanded on and interrogated what the idea of “accessibility” really means. Whether riding a shopping cart like a throne, or relating his experiences on a “gay, pink bus,” Haddad shared with audiences an unabashed queer fabulosity that was both unforgettable and deeply human.

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Broadway

Ken Fallin’s Broadway: Remembering Angela Lansbury in Sweeney Todd

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On Sunday look for a brand new charcuterie of Josh Groban and Annaleigh Ashford in Sweeney Todd..  I loved the new production, and it’s two leads.

I saw the original with Angela Lansbury and Len Cariou, which was also a favorite. I think it’s Sondheim’s greatest work.
Here is my drawing of Angela as Mrs. Lovett, to salute the original.
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