Independent Arts News Reporting New Dramatists Honors Music Theatre International at Spring Luncheon Celebrating Stephen Schwartz
Reported on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
Pictured Above: Stephen Schwartz at 2025 New Dramatists Spring Luncheon. Photo Credit: Michael Hull.
NEWSROOM POST: NEW YORK, NEW YORK
The luncheon, held in the Broadway Ballroom at the Marriott Marquis, begins with a champagne reception at 11:15 a.m. and concludes at 2:30 p.m.
New York, NY — Tony Honor–winning playwright development organization New Dramatists will present its annual Konecky Award to Music Theatre International (MTI) at the organization’s Annual Spring Luncheon on Tuesday, May 26 at the New York Marriott Marquis. The event will also celebrate legendary composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz, creator of Wicked, Godspell, and Pippin.
Named for longtime Board President Isobel Konecky and entertainment attorney Ron Konecky, the award recognizes individuals and organizations whose leadership, dedication, and service strengthen the theatre community.
“Music Theatre International is deeply invested in the vitality of musical theatre and expanding access to the arts,” said New Dramatists Executive Director Christie Brown, citing MTI’s global reach and commitment to educational theatre.
MTI President and CEO Drew Cohen noted the honor’s personal significance, reflecting on mentorship from the Koneckys early in his career.
The luncheon, held in the Broadway Ballroom at the Marriott Marquis, begins with a champagne reception at 11:15 a.m. and concludes at 2:30 p.m. Tickets start at $550, with sponsorship opportunities available. Information and reservations are available at NewDramatists.org/luncheon.
Founded in 1949 with the involvement of Oscar Hammerstein II and other leading theatre figures, New Dramatists remains the nation’s longest-running playwright development organization, supporting generations of writers who have shaped contemporary American theatre.
Music Theatre International, founded in 1952, is one of the world’s leading theatrical licensing agencies, providing performance rights and educational resources to more than 100,000 theatres across 150 countries.
