The Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation has announced applications are open for the inaugural Abe Burrows Award for assistant directors. Established by the James and Deborah Burrows Foundation, the unrestricted $10,000 prize may be used to aid the recipient in any way that allows them to focus on their work as an assistant director.

The award honors late Tony-winning director Abe Burrows (How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying), who was dedicated to supporting the next generation of directors. 

“I learned my craft by assisting my father and others," James Burrows, director and son of Abe Burrows said in a statement. "It is my hope that this award will provide the access and opportunity for other emerging artists to do the same."

Applications for the award are open now through February 26. To qualify, applicants must serve as an assistant director at some point between June 2024 and December 2025, and the production they assist must be directed by an SDC member in good standing. The winner, chosen by a panel of industry professionals, will be announced by May 2024. 

“We are thrilled and honored to have collaborated with the Burrows Foundation to establish this award at SDCF," says SDCF Director Dani Barlow. "We look forward to providing this much-needed support to directors as they continue to develop and pursue their craft. We are grateful to the Burrows Foundation for recognizing the importance of supporting artists at this stage in their careers.”

Founded in 1965, SDCF is a not-for-profit foundation intended to celebrate and support directors and choreographers throughout their careers.

Visit SDCFoundation.org.