What Is 2019 Outer Critics Circle Awards

Overview

The 2019 Outer Critics Circle Awards recognized outstanding achievements in Broadway and Off-Broadway theater during the 2018–2019 season. Organized by the Outer Critics Circle, an association of theater critics covering New York productions, the awards highlight excellence in both commercial and nonprofit theater.

Winners were announced on May 6, 2019, just weeks before the Tony Awards, making them a key indicator of momentum in the awards season. The awards cover a broad range of categories, from acting and directing to design and special achievements in regional theater.

• The 2019 ceremony announced winners on May 6, 2019, serving as a precursor to the Tony Awards and influencing industry buzz.
• 25 competitive categories were awarded, including Best Broadway Play, Best Off-Broadway Musical, and Best New Revival.
• 'The Ferryman' by Jez Butterworth won Best Broadway Play, praised for its gripping narrative and ensemble cast.
• 'Hadestown', the myth-inspired musical by Anaïs Mitchell, won Best Broadway Musical and Best New Score.
• More than 100 critics from print, digital, and broadcast outlets across North America vote on the winners annually.

How It Works

The Outer Critics Circle Awards are determined by a voting body of journalists and critics who cover theater outside the daily newspaper mainstream. These include national and international critics, as well as online and broadcast reviewers.

• Eligibility Period: Productions must have opened between May 1, 2018, and April 25, 2019, to qualify for the 2019 awards.
• Voting Membership: Over 100 critics from outlets across the U.S. and Canada are eligible to vote, representing diverse media platforms.
• Submission Process: Shows are automatically considered if they open during the eligibility window and are reviewed by a member.
• Award Categories: Include Best New Play, Best Musical, Best Actor, Best Director, and design awards for sets, costumes, and lighting.
• Tie Rules: In the event of a tie, multiple winners are announced, as occurred in the Outstanding New Off-Broadway Play category in 2019.
• Special Awards: The John Gassner Award and the Legend Award are given to individuals or shows with lasting cultural impact.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how the 2019 Outer Critics Circle Awards compare to other major theater honors:

The Outer Critics Circle Awards stand out for their broad geographic representation of voters and their early announcement date, which often foreshadows Tony success. Unlike the Obies or Lortels, which focus on Off-Broadway, the Outer Critics Circle includes both Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, making it a hybrid honor with wide influence.

Why It Matters

These awards hold significant sway in shaping public and industry perception during the competitive spring theater season. Their early timing and diverse voter base give them unique credibility among critics and producers alike.

• Industry Momentum: Winning or being nominated can boost ticket sales and extend limited runs, as seen with 'Hadestown'.
• Critical Validation: Recognition from a large body of critics reinforces artistic excellence and can influence Tony outcomes.
• Regional Spotlight: The awards include categories for regional theater, elevating productions outside New York.
• Design Recognition: Lighting, sound, and costume designers gain visibility through dedicated categories.
• Historical Record: The awards have been given since 1950, creating a long-term archive of theatrical excellence.
• Media Exposure: Winners receive coverage in outlets like The New York Times, Playbill, and Broadway.com.

Ultimately, the 2019 Outer Critics Circle Awards not only celebrated standout productions like 'The Ferryman' and 'Hadestown' but also reinforced the role of critical consensus in shaping theater history.