Barbara Whitman
Latest News on Barbara Whitman:
Photos: THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Opens At New World Stages (Nov 18, 2025)
THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Extends Run at New World Stages (Nov 17, 2025)
Photos: The Cast Of THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Celebrates Opening Night (Nov 17, 2025)
Photos: THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Opens At New World Stages (Nov 18, 2025)
THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Extends Run at New World Stages (Nov 17, 2025)
Photos: The Cast Of THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Celebrates Opening Night (Nov 17, 2025)
BIO
Whitman is the daughter of investment advisor Martin J. Whitman, namesake of the Martin J. Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University. She has two brothers: James Whitman, a professor at Yale Law School, and Thomas Whitman, a professor of music at Swarthmore College. Her aunt is judge Phyllis W. Beck, who served on the Superior Court of Pennsylvania and was married to the University of Pennsylvania psychiatrist Aaron Beck. Her cousin is psychologist Judith S. Beck, who co-founded the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
Whitman attended the Dalton School and graduated from the Elizabeth Seeger School. She attended Bennington College and graduated from New York University's Gallatin School of Individualized Study in 1988 and received an MFA from Columbia University School of the Arts in 2005.
Whitman is a former theater actress who made her Broadway debut producing A Raisin in the Sun (2004). She has won multiple Tony and Drama League Awards for producing Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Fun Home, Red, Angels in America, and The Humans.
In 2021, Whitman endowed the Barbara Whitman Award to support a female, trans or non-binary early-career stage director. She sits on the Board of Governors and the executive committee of the The Broadway League.
Photos
Aaron Glick, Timothy Bloom, Danny Mefford, Leana Rae Concepcion, Autumn Best, Matt Manuel, Kevin McHale, Lilli Cooper, Justin Cooley, Philippe Arroyo, Jasmine Amy Rogers, Jason Kravits, Barbara Whitman
Date:
11/16/2025
From: Photos: The Cast Of THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Celebrates Opening Night
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Productions
Awards and Nominations
winner
Tony Awards - 2016 - Best Play
Barbara WhitmanThe Humans
winner
Tony Awards - 2015 - Best Musical
Barbara Whitman, Fun Home
winner
Tony Awards - 2014 - Best Revival of a Musical
Barbara Whitman, Hedwig and the Angry Inch
Tony Awards - 2009 - Best Musical
Barbara Whitman, Next to Normal
Tony Awards - 2009 - Best Play
Barbara Whitman, 33 Variations
Tony Awards - 2009 - Best Revival of a Play
Barbara Whitman, Mary Stuart
Tony Awards - 2005 - Best Musical
Barbara Whitman, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
Tony Awards - 2005 - Best Musical
Barbara Whitman, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Tony Awards - 2004 - Best Revival of a Play
Barbara Whitman, A Raisin in the Sun
Videos
Video: Cast and Creatives Talk NEXT TO NORMAL at Barrington Stage
by Stephi Wild - 2024-09-04 06:53:59
Video: Inside Rehearsals for Barrington Stage's NEXT TO NORMAL Starring Natalie Joy Johnson
by Joshua Wright - 2024-08-06 10:49:52
Video: Caissie Levy Performs 'I Miss the Mountains' From NEXT TO NORMAL
by Stephi Wild - 2023-07-27 07:17:34
Video: Go Inside the GOOD NIGHT, OSCAR Opening Night Curtain Call!
by A.A. Cristi - 2023-04-25 22:47:36
Photos/Video: First Look at Sean Hayes and More in GOOD NIGHT, OSCAR Ahead of Tonight's Opening Night
by Show Highlights - 2023-04-24 10:44:52
VIDEO: See Patti LuPone Sing 'Back on Top' in the Recording Studio; WAR PAINT Cast Album Out This Month!
by BWW News Desk - 2017-05-12 11:18:05
VIDEO: Nick Kroll and John Mulaney Announce OH, HELLO On Broadway With Livestream Q&A
by Michael Dale - 2016-06-27 13:05:17
TV: Our Favorite Moment of the Bee? Chatting with the Company of the 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Reunion!
by TV - Red Carpets - 2015-07-08 10:02:56
STAGE TUBE: NEXT TO NORMAL's d'Arcy James Performs 'I've Been' on GMA!
by Jessica Lewis - 2010-05-27 14:38:52
News
Photos: THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Opens At New World Stages
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 18, 2025
This past weekend, the cast of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and friends celebrated their opening night. Check out photos of the star-studded cast and guests, including members of he original Broadway cast!
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 18, 2025
This past weekend, the cast of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and friends celebrated their opening night. Check out photos of the star-studded cast and guests, including members of he original Broadway cast!
THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Extends Run at New World Stages
by Stephi Wild - Nov 17, 2025
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee will extend its run off-Broadway through April 12, 2026, due to popular demand. The production opens tonight, Monday, November 17, at New World Stages, and celebrated with a gala on Sunday, November 16.
by Stephi Wild - Nov 17, 2025
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee will extend its run off-Broadway through April 12, 2026, due to popular demand. The production opens tonight, Monday, November 17, at New World Stages, and celebrated with a gala on Sunday, November 16.
Photos: The Cast Of THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Celebrates Opening Night
by Jennifer Broski - Nov 17, 2025
Check out photos of the cast of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee on the opening night red carpet for the Off-Broadway production running now at New World Stages.
by Jennifer Broski - Nov 17, 2025
Check out photos of the cast of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee on the opening night red carpet for the Off-Broadway production running now at New World Stages.
Photos: First Look at THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE At New World Stages
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 14, 2025
Official production photos have been released of the first New York revival of the landmark Tony Award-winning musical comedy The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, now in previews at New World Stages.
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 14, 2025
Official production photos have been released of the first New York revival of the landmark Tony Award-winning musical comedy The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, now in previews at New World Stages.
Leigh Silverman Elected President Of The Stage Directors And Choreographers Foundation
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 13, 2025
Leigh Silverman has been elected President of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation. Silverman joins Ellenore Scott, Sharon Ott, and a slate of distinguished trustees in shaping SDCF’s next era as the organization approaches its 60th anniversary.
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 13, 2025
Leigh Silverman has been elected President of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation. Silverman joins Ellenore Scott, Sharon Ott, and a slate of distinguished trustees in shaping SDCF’s next era as the organization approaches its 60th anniversary.
Photos: Tony-Winner Natalie Venetia Belcon, Michael Urie, Uzo Aduba and More Step Out for A TECTONIC CABARET
by A.A. Cristi - Oct 21, 2025
Tectonic Theater Project hosted its annual benefit gala, A Tectonic Cabaret, on October 20, 2025, at the Edison Ballroom in New York City. The event honored Tony-winning producer Barbara Whitman and Emmy Award-winning actress and activist Uzo Aduba, featuring performances by Hannah Gadsby, Beth Malone, Natalie Venetia Belcon, and more. Check out photos from the event.
by A.A. Cristi - Oct 21, 2025
Tectonic Theater Project hosted its annual benefit gala, A Tectonic Cabaret, on October 20, 2025, at the Edison Ballroom in New York City. The event honored Tony-winning producer Barbara Whitman and Emmy Award-winning actress and activist Uzo Aduba, featuring performances by Hannah Gadsby, Beth Malone, Natalie Venetia Belcon, and more. Check out photos from the event.
Lilli Cooper & Jason Kravits Join THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE
by Michael Major - Oct 2, 2025
Lilli Cooper (Spring Awakening, Tootsie, POTUS) and Jason Kravits (The Drowsy Chaperone, Sly Fox) have joined the cast of the first New York revival of the landmark Tony Award-winning musical comedy The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.
by Michael Major - Oct 2, 2025
Lilli Cooper (Spring Awakening, Tootsie, POTUS) and Jason Kravits (The Drowsy Chaperone, Sly Fox) have joined the cast of the first New York revival of the landmark Tony Award-winning musical comedy The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.
Michael Urie, Beth Malone and More to Join Tectonic Theater Project Gala Honoring Barbara Whitman
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 18, 2025
Tony Award-winning producer Barbara Whitman will be presented with the James C. Hormel Spirit of Tectonic Award at Tectonic Theater Project's A Tectonic Cabaret, the organization’s annual benefit gala. Learn more!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 18, 2025
Tony Award-winning producer Barbara Whitman will be presented with the James C. Hormel Spirit of Tectonic Award at Tectonic Theater Project's A Tectonic Cabaret, the organization’s annual benefit gala. Learn more!
New Musical CEILIDH Now in Performances in Maryland
by Emmy Rice - Sep 7, 2025
Producers Grove Entertainment (Beth Williams, Mindy Rich), Barbara Whitman and Alan Cumming have announced performances have begun for the new musical Ceilidh [KAY-lee], based on one of Scotland’s oldest and most beloved customs.
by Emmy Rice - Sep 7, 2025
Producers Grove Entertainment (Beth Williams, Mindy Rich), Barbara Whitman and Alan Cumming have announced performances have begun for the new musical Ceilidh [KAY-lee], based on one of Scotland’s oldest and most beloved customs.
Jasmine Amy Rogers, Autumn Best, and Matt Manuel Join THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE
by Stephi Wild - Aug 18, 2025
Three cast members have joined the first New York revival of the Tony Award-winning musical comedy The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee! Learn more about the show here!
by Stephi Wild - Aug 18, 2025
Three cast members have joined the first New York revival of the Tony Award-winning musical comedy The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee! Learn more about the show here!
Kevin McHale, Justin Cooley, and More Will Lead SPELLING BEE Revival
by Stephi Wild - Jul 23, 2025
The first New York revival of the landmark Tony Award-winning musical comedy The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has found its initial cast members! Learn more here!
by Stephi Wild - Jul 23, 2025
The first New York revival of the landmark Tony Award-winning musical comedy The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has found its initial cast members! Learn more here!
Can You Guess the Cast of THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE in Emojis?
by Nicole Rosky - Jul 17, 2025
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee will return to the New York stage this fall. The musical will begin previews on November 7, with opening night set for November 17, 2025. The show is now teasing its cast via Instagram. Can you guess the spellers from these emojis?
by Nicole Rosky - Jul 17, 2025
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee will return to the New York stage this fall. The musical will begin previews on November 7, with opening night set for November 17, 2025. The show is now teasing its cast via Instagram. Can you guess the spellers from these emojis?
THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE to Return to New York in November
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jun 16, 2025
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is returning to New York City! Learn more about The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and see how to purchase tickets.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jun 16, 2025
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is returning to New York City! Learn more about The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and see how to purchase tickets.
NEXT TO NORMAL Original Broadway Cast Recording 15th Anniversary Edition Out Now
by Stephi Wild - Jun 13, 2025
The 15th Anniversary Edition of the Next to Normal Original Broadway Cast Recording has been released in its first-ever vinyl pressing and on CD, available now.
by Stephi Wild - Jun 13, 2025
The 15th Anniversary Edition of the Next to Normal Original Broadway Cast Recording has been released in its first-ever vinyl pressing and on CD, available now.
Theater Mu Names Fran de Leon as Next Artistic Director
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jun 2, 2025
Theater Mu has chosen Fran de Leon to be its next artistic director, effective as of June 2 with a full transition into the role by the end of 2025. Learn more about De Leon here!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jun 2, 2025
Theater Mu has chosen Fran de Leon to be its next artistic director, effective as of June 2 with a full transition into the role by the end of 2025. Learn more about De Leon here!
THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Teases NYC Return
by Michael Major - May 13, 2025
Is the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee returning to New York City? A mysterious new website and social media account are teasing a potential new production of thr Tony-winning musical.
by Michael Major - May 13, 2025
Is the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee returning to New York City? A mysterious new website and social media account are teasing a potential new production of thr Tony-winning musical.
CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF, NEXT TO NORMAL And More Set for 2025/26 Denver Center Theatre Company Season
by A.A. Cristi - Apr 26, 2025
Denver Center Theatre Company has announced the 2025/26 season for the regional producing theatre arm of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA).
by A.A. Cristi - Apr 26, 2025
Denver Center Theatre Company has announced the 2025/26 season for the regional producing theatre arm of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA).
SDCF Reveals Recipient and Finalists for 2025 Barbara Whitman Award
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Apr 22, 2025
Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation revealed the recipient and four finalists for the 2025 Barbara Whitman Award. Learn more about the award here!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Apr 22, 2025
Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation revealed the recipient and four finalists for the 2025 Barbara Whitman Award. Learn more about the award here!
Tisch New Theatre To Present Tony Award-Winning Musical FUN HOME
by A.A. Cristi - Apr 15, 2025
NYU's Tisch New Theatre will present Fun Home Off-Broadway at the American Theatre of Actors from April 26th to May 4th, 2025. Welcome to the Fun Home, and be sure to wipe your shoes at the door.
by A.A. Cristi - Apr 15, 2025
NYU's Tisch New Theatre will present Fun Home Off-Broadway at the American Theatre of Actors from April 26th to May 4th, 2025. Welcome to the Fun Home, and be sure to wipe your shoes at the door.
CEILIDH: A NEW MUSICAL to Make North American Premiere in Baltimore This Fall
by Emmy Rice - Apr 4, 2025
Producers Grove Entertainment (Beth Williams, Mindy Rich), Barbara Whitman and Alan Cumming have announced that the new musical Ceilidh, based on one of Scotland’s oldest and most beloved customs, will make its North American premiere in Baltimore, MD this fall.
by Emmy Rice - Apr 4, 2025
Producers Grove Entertainment (Beth Williams, Mindy Rich), Barbara Whitman and Alan Cumming have announced that the new musical Ceilidh, based on one of Scotland’s oldest and most beloved customs, will make its North American premiere in Baltimore, MD this fall.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What awards has Barbara Whitman been nominated for?
Best Play (Tony Awards) for The Humans, Best Musical (Tony Awards) for Fun Home, Best Revival of a Musical (Tony Awards) for Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Best Musical (Tony Awards) for Next to Normal, Best Play (Tony Awards) for 33 Variations, Best Revival of a Play (Tony Awards) for Mary Stuart, Best Musical (Tony Awards) for Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Best Musical (Tony Awards) for The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and Best Revival of a Play (Tony Awards) for A Raisin in the Sun.
What awards has Barbara Whitman won?
Barbara Whitman has won several Tony Awards, including Best Play for The Humans, Best Musical for Fun Home, and Best Revival of a Musical for Hedwig and the Angry Inch.
Videos