The New York Drama Critics' Circle has named Samuel D. Hunter’s A Case for the Existence of God Best Play of the 2021-2022 season, while David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori’s Broadway-bound Kimberly Akimbo was named Best Musical. The selections were made at the organization’s 86th annual voting meeting.

Special citations were awarded to actor and director Austin Pendleton and for emerging talent to Sanaz Toossi for her plays English and Wish You Were Here.

The awards, to be presented during a private ceremony May 20, include a cash prize of $2,500 for Best Play.

A Case for the Existence of God, written by Hunter and directed by David Cromer, had its world premiere May 2 at Signature Theatre Company, where its engagement was recently extended. Kimberly Akimbo, with a book and lyrics by Lindsay-Abaire, music by Tesori, and direction by Jessica Stone, had its world premiere at Atlantic Theater Company December 8, 2021. The production will open on Broadway in the fall.

The New York Drama Critics’ Circle comprises 22 drama critics from daily newspapers, magazines, wire services, and websites based in the New York metropolitan area. The New York Drama Critics' Circle Award has been awarded every year since 1936 to the best new play of the season (with optional awards for foreign or American plays, musicals, and special achievements).

Adam Feldman has served as president of the NYDCC since 2005. Joe Dziemianowicz serves as vice president; Zachary Stewart is treasurer.

Visit DramaCritics.org.