Ain't Too Proud's Ephraim Sykes Among Winners of 2019 Helen Hayes Awards

A talented group of stars and creatives were named winners of 2019 Helen Hayes Awards at a ceremony held in Washington, D.C. on May 13. Now in its 35th year, the Hayes Awards recognize outstanding achievement in more than 90 professional theaters across the Washington metropolitan area.

Among Broadway-related artists who triumphed is Ephraim Sykes, currently Tony-nominated for his performance as David Ruffin in Ain't Too Proud—The Life and Times of The Temptations—taking home the Hayes Award as Outstanding Performer—Visiting Production for that musical's pre-Broadway run at the Kennedy Center.

Other Broadway alums taking home Hayes Awards include Corbin Bleu—currently appearing on Broadway as Bill Calhoun/Lucentio in Kiss Me, Kate!—winning as Outstanding Lead Actor in a Musical—Hayes for his turn as Billy Crocker in Anything Goes at Arena Stage; Tony nominee Tina Landau (SpongeBob SquarePants) took home the Hayes Award for Outstanding Direction in a Musical—Hayes for Arena's world premiere production of the musical Dave.

Eugene Lee, who appeared on Broadway this past season in American Son, won the Robert Prosky Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Play—Hayes for his performance as Memphis Lee in Two Trains Running at Arena. Broadway veteran Natascia Díaz (Man of La Mancha) won as Outstanding Lead Actress in a Musical—Hayes for her turn as Fosca in Passion at Signature Theatre.

For a full list of 2019 Helen Hayes Award winners, click here.