theatreWashington to Kick Off theatreWeek on April 14; Closes with 2014 Helen Hayes Awards

theatreWashington today announced details of its celebratory theatreWeek (April 14 - 20, 2014), offering countless opportunities for both lifelong patrons and reticent newbies to explore Washington's diverse professional theatres-from discounted performances to ticket giveaways and promotions to behind-the-scenes events. A joint endeavor with presenting sponsor The Washington Post and the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, the campaign will further spotlight Washington-area theatre through an area-wide ad campaign, to be seen by millions. The celebration culminates with the 30th Annual Helen Hayes Awards on April 21 at the National Building Museum.

"People go to the theatre for any range of reasons," said theatreWashington President & CEO Linda Levy. "They also don't go for a range of reasons, often because they just don't know how affordable, how accessible, how diverse, how compelling Washington theatre is. We're trying to break down those barriers. Live theatre has something for everyone. It doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. And, chances are, there's one fairly close by."

theatreWashington will enhance the scope of its campaign through partnerships with Destination DC's Date Nights DC and DC Cool promotions, and through collaboration with the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities' Live the Arts initiative. As presenting sponsor of theatreWeek, The Washington Post will extend the campaign's reach through its multi-pronged media engine.

"The campaign serves two purposes," notes Levy. "It promotes the amazing range of our theatre community, from classics to children's theatre to contemporary work. It also celebrates our region as a destination for theatre lovers from around the world."

Details will be announced soon regarding participation from theatreWashington's 80-plus constituent theatres, many of whom will be offering great deals, discounts, and special programming such as talk-backs, backstage tours, and open rehearsals. More than 20 theatres already have special theatreWeek plans in the works, providing enticing new ways to engage with audiences.

theatreWeek will end on a high note on April 21 with the area's largest cast party, The Helen Hayes Awards, celebrating its 30th anniversary year. Presented at the National Building Museum, the evening will take on a new format this year, combining Awards and party in one not-to-be-missed event.

The 30th Annual Helen Hayes Awards will be held on Monday, April 21 at the National Building Museum. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit theatreWashington.org or call 202-337-4572.

theatreWashington is dedicated to promoting, representing and strengthening Washington area theatre companies, artists, professional, and diverse audiences of all ages - and thereby the community as a whole.