Benjamin Velez and Madeline Myers have been named the winners of the 2025 Kleban Prize, recognizing promising musical theatre writers.
Velez is being honored for his lyrics, and Myers as a librettist. The pair will be presented with the honor at an invitation-only event February 3, to be hosted by ASCAP and BMI at ASCAP. Kleban board members Richard Maltby, Jr. and Maury Yeston will host the evening, which will include musical performances of works written by this year's winners.
Velez is poised to make his Broadway debut later this season with Real Women Have Curves, beginning performances April 1 at the James Earl Jones Theatre. Velez co-wrote the score with Joy Huerta.
Myers' musicals include Double Helix, which made its world premiere at Bay Street Theater in 2023; Flatbush Avenue; and The Devil's Apprentice.
This year's award winners were selected by a judging panel including Raja Father Kelly, Clint Ramos, and Rachel Sussman.
The Kleban Award is part of the work of The Kleban Foundation, established in 1988 following the death of A Chorus Line lyricist Edward L. Kleban. The Award includes a $100,000 prize payable over two years, and has been given out for 35 years.