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Terrence McNally

Birth Place: St. Petersburg, FL, USA

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BIO

McNally has had a remarkably far-ranging career spanning six decades. In 2018 he was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters. He is a recipient of the Dramatists Guild Lifetime Achievement Award and the Lucille Lortel Lifetime Achievement Award. He has won four Tony Awards for his plays Love! Valour! Compassion! and Master Class and his musical books for Kiss of the Spider Woman and Ragtime.


He has written a number of TV scripts, including "Andre's Mother," for which he won an Emmy Award. He has received two Guggenheim Fellowships, a Rockefeller Grant, four Drama Desk Awards, two Lucille Lortel Awards, two Obie Awards, and three Hull-Warriner Awards from the Dramatists Guild. In 1996 he was inducted into the Theater Hall of Fame.
He wrote the libretto for the operas Great Scottand Dead Man Walking, both with music by Jake Heggie. Other plays include Mothers and Sons; Lips Together, Teeth Apart; The Lisbon Traviata; A Perfect Ganesh; The Visit; The Full Monty; Corpus Christi; Bad Habits; Next; The Ritz; Anastasia; It’s Only a Play; Where Has Tommy Flowers Gone?; and The Stendhal Syndrome.

Photos

Productions

 
[Broadway, 2025]
Book
 
[Off-Broadway, 2024]
Book Writer
 
[US Tour, 2018] Cancelled [Replacement]
Book[Replacement]
 
[Broadway, 2015]
Book
 
[Off-Broadway, 2014]
Playwright
 
[Broadway, 2014]
Plawright
 
[Williamstown, MA (Regional), 2014]
Playwright
 
[Broadway, 2014]
Playwright
 
[Broadway, 2000] Cancelled
Book Revisions
 
[New York, 1998]
Book Revisions
 
[Off-Broadway, 1995]
Adaptation

Writing

Playwright
Playwright
Playwright
Bookwriter
Playwright
Playwright
Playwright
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Book Writer
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TV Shows

The Young and the Restless
Dr. Robert Lynch

Awards and Nominations

Tony Awards - 2020 - Best Revival of a Play

Terrence McNally, Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune


winner
Tony Awards - 2019 - Special Tony Awards for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre

Terrence McNally

Drama Desk Awards - 2017 - Outstanding Book of a Musical

Terrence McNally, Anastasia

Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2017 - Outstanding Book of a Musical (Broadway or Off-Broadway)

Terrence McNally, Anastasia

Drama League Awards - 2015 - Outstanding Revival of a Broadway or Off-Broadway Play

Terrence McNally, It's Only a Play


winner
The Lortels - 2015 - Lifetime Achievement Award

Terrence McNally

Tony Awards - 2015 - Best Book of a Musical

Terrence McNally, The Visit


winner
- 2014 - Legend of Off Broadway Honorees

Terrence McNally

Tony Awards - 2014 - Best Play

Terrence McNally, Mothers and Sons

Drama Desk Awards - 2007 - Outstanding Play

Terrence McNally, Some Me


winner
Helen Hayes Awards - 2004 - The Helen Hayes Tribute, sponsored by Jaylee and Gilbert Mead

Terrence McNally


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 2002 - Outstanding Book of a Musical

Terrence McNally, A Man of No Importance

Tony Awards - 2001 - Best Book of a Musical

Terrence McNally, The Full Monty


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 2000 - Outstanding Book of a Musical

Terrence McNally, The Full Monty


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1998 - Best Book of a Musical

Terrence McNally, Ragtime

New York Drama Critics Circle Awards - 1998 - Best Musical

Terrence McNally, Ragtime


winner
Tony Awards - 1998 - Best Book of a Musical

Terrence McNally, Ragtime


winner
Tony Awards - 1996 - Best Play

Terrence McNally, Master Class


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1995 - Outstanding Play

Terrence McNally, Love! Valour! Compassion!


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1995 - Outstanding Play

Terrence McNally, Love! Valour! Compassion!


winner
New York Drama Critics Circle Awards - 1995 - Best American Play

Terrence McNally, Love! Valour! Compassion!


winner
Obie Awards - 1995 - Playwriting

Terrence McNally, Love! Valour! Compassion!


winner
Tony Awards - 1995 - Best Play

Terrence McNally, Love! Valour! Compassion!

The Pulitzer Prize - 1994 - The Pulitzer Prize for Drama

Terrence McNally, A Perfect Ganesh


winner
New York Drama Critics Circle Awards - 1993 - Best Musical

Terrence McNally, Kiss of the Spider Woman


winner
Tony Awards - 1993 - Best Book of a Musical

Terrence McNally, Kiss of the Spider Woman


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1992 - Outstanding New Play

Terrence McNally, Lips Together, Teeth Apart


winner
The Lortels - 1992 - Outstanding Body of Work

Terrence McNally

Drama Desk Awards - 1975 - Outstanding New American Play

Terrence McNally, The Ritz


winner
Obie Awards - 1974 - Distinguished Plays

Terrence McNally, Bad Habits

Videos

News


Applications Open April 7 for the 2026 Terrence McNally Award for Playwrights
by Stephi Wild - Mar 10, 2026

Philadelphia Theatre Company (PTC), in partnership with The Terrence McNally Foundation, has announced that applications for the 2026 Terrence McNally Award will open on April 7.
Allison Blackwell Shares Backstage Moments and Must-Haves at RAGTIME
by Stephi Wild - Mar 10, 2026

In this edition of Words From The Wings, we catch up with Allison Blackwell who is appearing in Ragtime on Broadway who took us backstage at the Vivian Beaumont Theatre to share some of her favorite backstage moments, must-haves, and more!
BWW Q&A: Lori Marra Talks SWEAT at CenterStage Theatre at the JCC
by Joshua Wright - Mar 10, 2026

Based on interviews with working-class residents of Reading, Pennsylvania, Lynn Nottage’s Pulitzer Prize-winning drama Sweat follows a tight-knit group of factory workers who gather at their neighborhood bar to share laughs, drinks, and dreams of a better life.
RAGTIME Comes to Dallas Theater Center This Month
by Stephi Wild - Mar 10, 2026

Dallas Theater Center has announced that the fourth production of its 2025–2026 season will be the sweeping musical Ragtime, running Friday, March 27, 2026 through Sunday, April 19, 2026 at the Dee & Charles Wyly Theatre.
Review: ANASTASIA THE MUSICAL at Crown Theater
by David Bravos - Mar 6, 2026

There is something undeniably magical about a story that leans into its own whimsy, and ANASTASIA THE MUSICAL, now playing at Crown Theatre, does exactly that. Following its successful Melbourne run, the Broadway hit has finally arrived in Perth, bringing with it a sense of old-school theatrical grandeur that feels like a warm embrace for the romantic at heart.
Young Performers Cast As 'Little Anastasia' For Sydney Premiere Of ANASTASIA
by A.A. Cristi - Mar 6, 2026

The Sydney premiere of the Broadway musical ANASTASIA will feature a new lineup of young cast members. This announcement comes alongside news of additional seats now available for the show's Sydney season.
RAGTIME, DEAR EVAN HANSEN, and More Set for Village Theatre Set for 2026"2027 Mainstage Season
by A.A. Cristi - Mar 5, 2026

Village Theatre has announced its 2026–2027 Mainstage Season, featuring the musicals RAGTIME, COME FROM AWAY, and DEAR EVAN HANSEN, the mystery AND THEN THERE WERE NONE by Agatha Christie, and the world premiere musical comedy LOVE IS DEAD.
Photos: First look at Little Theatre Off Broadway’s THE FULL MONTY
by Jerri Shafer - Mar 4, 2026

The Full Monty follows the fortunes of six unemployed steelworkers in Buffalo, New York. With no job, money or prospects, they are fed up. When the men spy their wives and other local women going crazy over a group of male strippers, an idea begins to emerge. Overcoming their jealousy and feelings of emasculation, they decide to make some quick cash by forming their own act–a team of male strippers with ‘real man’ bodies
Merola Opera Program and San Francisco Opera Center Reveal 2026 Schwabacher Recital Series
by Stephi Wild - Mar 4, 2026

Now in its 42nd year, the Schwabacher Recital Series, presented by Merola Opera Program and San Francisco Opera Center, will return this spring with a series of three recitals.
Video: DEATH OF A SALESMAN Company Discusses Broadway Revival
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 3, 2026

The upcoming Broadway revival of Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman has launched a new video series featuring former New York Times chief theater critic Ben Brantley in conversation with the cast.
Video: Joshua Henry and RAGTIME Cast Perform 'Gettin' Ready Rag'
by Josh Sharpe - Mar 3, 2026

During Monday's special Broadway-themed episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show, P!nk's daughter Willow went behind the scenes of Broadway's Ragtime to chat with the cast and crew about the production and share a musical number from the show. Check it out now.
Cynthia Nixon and Susan Sarandon to Lead LITTLE LIVES Benefit at The Public Theater
by A.A. Cristi - Feb 27, 2026

Cynthia Nixon and Susan Sarandon will star in a benefit reading of LITTLE LIVES at The Public Theater on March 16. The one-night event will support the Chicago Abortion Fund and feature a cast of stage and screen performers.
Michael Arden, Dane Laffrey, and More Will Receive Transporting American Theatre Award
by Stephi Wild - Feb 19, 2026

Michael Arden, Dane Laffrey, Hillary Blanken, and Fred Gallo will be honored with the Transporting American Theatre Award by Transport Group on April 28.
DEATH OF A SALESMAN Extends An Additional Eight Weeks on Broadway
by Stephi Wild - Feb 18, 2026

Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman will be extended for an additional eight weeks of performances on Broadway. Learn more about the production and how to get tickets here!
Video: Joshua Henry Performs 'Make Them Hear You' From RAGTIME on THE VIEW
by Josh Sharpe - Feb 16, 2026

Tony Award nominee Joshua Henry took over The View stage on Monday to perform a powerful rendition of Make Them Hear You from the musical revival of Ragtime. Check out his performance now.
DEAR EVAN HANSEN and More Set for City Springs Theatre Company Ninth Season
by Caroline Powell - Feb 13, 2026

Atlanta’s fastest-growing performing arts organization, City Springs Theatre Company (CSTC) has announced its ninth season of musicals at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center (SSPAC).
Broadway Cast of RAGTIME Set for Monday Performance on THE VIEW
by Josh Sharpe - Feb 13, 2026

On Presidents Day, the cast of Broadway's Ragtime will take the stage on The View for a special performance from the hit revival. Tune in to watch the performance, airing Monday, February 16, at 11 a.m.-12 p.m. EDT on ABC.
Shakespeare & Company Unveils Its Full Season 2026 Line-up
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 13, 2026

Shakespeare & Company has unveiled its full line-up for Season 2026, unveiling a slate of new titles, returning acts, free and low-cost community events, and more.
Avery Deutsch Wins 2025 Neukom Playwriting Award for THE AGE OF MARY
by A.A. Cristi - Feb 13, 2026

Avery Deutsch's play 'THE AGE OF MARY' has been selected for the 2025 Neukom Playwriting Award, with upcoming workshops and public readings in Vermont and New Hampshire.
ANASTASIA Comes to Brisbane's Lyric Theatre QPAC in 2026
by Stephi Wild - Feb 12, 2026

Broadway musical ANASTASIA will premiere in Brisbane's Lyric Theatre at QPAC from September 2026. The crowd-favourite musical made its Australian debut in December at Melbourne's Regent Theatre wowing audiences and critics alike.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many shows has Terrence McNally written?

Terrence McNally has written 41 shows including The Lady of the Carnellias (Playwright), Maggie May (Playwright), And Things That Go Bump in the Night (Playwright), Here's Where I Belong (Bookwriter), Sweet Eros/ Witness (Playwright), Adaptation/ Next (Playwright), Where Has Tommy Flowers Gone? (Playwright), Broadway, Broadway (Bookwriter), The Rink (Bookwriter), It's Only a Play (Playwright), Urban Blight (Bookwriter), The Lisbon Traviata (Playwright), Bad Habits (Playwright), Lips Together, Teeth Apart (Playwright), Kiss of the Spider Woman (Bookwriter), A Perfect Ganesh (Playwright), Love! Valour! Compassion! (Playwright), Love! Valour! Compassion! (Playwright), Master Class (Playwright), By the Sea, By the Sea, By the Beautiful Sea (Playwright), Ragtime (Bookwriter), Corpus Christi (Playwright), The Visit (Bookwriter), The Full Monty (Bookwriter), A Man of No Importance (Bookwriter), Frankie And Johnny In The Clair De Lune (Playwright), Short Talks on the Universe (Playwright), The Stendhal Syndrome (Playwright), Dedication or The Stuff of Dreams (Playwright), Catch Me If You Can (Bookwriter), Chita Rivera: The Dancer's Life (Bookwriter), The 24 Hour Plays 2006 (Playwright), Some Men (Playwright), Deuce (Playwright), The Ritz (Playwright), Golden Age (Playwright), Mothers and Sons (Playwright), In Your Arms (Story), Anastasia (Book Writer), Fire and Air (Playwright), Pride Plays (Author).

What awards has Terrence McNally been nominated for?

Best Revival of a Play (Tony Awards) for Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune, Special Tony Awards for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre (Tony Awards), Outstanding Book of a Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for Anastasia, Outstanding Book of a Musical (Broadway or Off-Broadway) (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Anastasia, Outstanding Revival of a Broadway or Off-Broadway Play (Drama League Awards) for It's Only a Play, Lifetime Achievement Award (The Lortels), Best Book of a Musical (Tony Awards) for The Visit, Legend of Off Broadway Honorees (), Best Play (Tony Awards) for Mothers and Sons, Outstanding Play (Drama Desk Awards) for Some Me, The Helen Hayes Tribute, sponsored by Jaylee and Gilbert Mead (Helen Hayes Awards) for , Outstanding Book of a Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for A Man of No Importance, Best Book of a Musical (Tony Awards) for The Full Monty, Outstanding Book of a Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for The Full Monty, Best Book of a Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for Ragtime, Best Musical (New York Drama Critics Circle Awards) for Ragtime, Best Book of a Musical (Tony Awards) for Ragtime, Best Play (Tony Awards) for Master Class, Outstanding Play (Drama Desk Awards) for Love! Valour! Compassion! , Outstanding Play (Drama Desk Awards) for Love! Valour! Compassion!, Best American Play (New York Drama Critics Circle Awards) for Love! Valour! Compassion!, Playwriting (Obie Awards) for Love! Valour! Compassion!, Best Play (Tony Awards) for Love! Valour! Compassion!, The Pulitzer Prize for Drama (The Pulitzer Prize) for A Perfect Ganesh, Best Musical (New York Drama Critics Circle Awards) for Kiss of the Spider Woman, Best Book of a Musical (Tony Awards) for Kiss of the Spider Woman, Outstanding New Play (Drama Desk Awards) for Lips Together, Teeth Apart, Outstanding Body of Work (The Lortels), Outstanding New American Play (Drama Desk Awards) for The Ritz and Distinguished Plays (Obie Awards) for Bad Habits.

What awards has Terrence McNally won?

Terrence McNally has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his career. He was honored with Special Tony Awards for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre and the Lifetime Achievement Award from The Lortels. He was recognized as a Legend of Off Broadway Honoree and received The Helen Hayes Tribute, sponsored by Jaylee and Gilbert Mead, from the Helen Hayes Awards. McNally won the Drama Desk Awards for Outstanding Book of a Musical for A Man of No Importance and The Full Monty, as well as Best Book of a Musical for Ragtime. He also secured the Tony Award for Best Book of a Musical for Ragtime. His play Master Class earned him the Tony Award for Best Play. McNally’s Love! Valour! Compassion! won both the Drama Desk Award and Tony Award for Outstanding Play and Best Play respectively, along with the Best American Play from the New York Drama Critics Circle Awards and a Playwriting award from the Obie Awards. Kiss of the Spider Woman earned him the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Musical and the Tony Award for Best Book of a Musical. Additionally, he received the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding New Play for Lips Together, Teeth Apart. His Outstanding Body of Work was recognized by The Lortels, and he won the Obie Award for Distinguished Plays for Bad Habits.

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