Blanka Zizka receives the Vilcek Prize in Theatre for leadership that established Philadelphia’s Wilma Theater as an institution of national significance, and for a singular artistic vision and acclaimed direction of contemporary theatre.

Desdemona Chiang receives the Vilcek Prize for Creative Promise in Theatre for daring interpretations of new plays and classics, and for the establishment of Azeotrope, a theatre company with a focus on marginalized populations.

Yi Zhao receives the Vilcek Prize for Creative Promise in Theatre for innovative lighting designs that transform space and time in productions at national theatres and experimental venues alike.