"August: Osage County," nominated for Outstanding Production and Ensemble of a Play.

Brush off those tails and evening gowns—the big day is June 3!

The 23rd Annual Artie Awards, recognizing excellence in Buffalo theater will be held at the Town Ballroom on Monday, June 3, 2013. The event is a benefit for Benedict House, which provides services to individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS.

"Next to Normal," nominated for Outstanding Production and Ensemble of a Musical.

The Fox on the Fairway

From the Mississippi Delta

'Swonderful

First Lady Suite

This event will feature musical numbers from nominated shows and presenters from across the theater community. This year’s hosts are Artvoice theater editor Anthony Chase (for the 23rd time) joined by actors Amy Jakiel and Charmagne Chi. Michael Hake is the music director.

The evening begins with the red carpet at 7pm Get there on the early side to be a contender for best dressed—if Jimmy doesn’t see you, you can’t be chosen! For the 23rd time, the evening will feature jazz vocalist Peggy Farrell. Admission is a $10 cash donation to Benedict House.

The nominations are being announced in two parts. Below find nominees for Outstanding Play, Musical, Ensemble of a Play, and Ensemble of a Musical. The acting, design, and directing categories will be released later in the week, simultaneously on the Artvoice Facebook page and at a location to be flashed. The 2012-2013 season featured 62 eligible plays and musicals.

OUTSTANDING PRODUCTION OF A PLAY

American Buffalo

(Irish Classical Theatre)

August: Osage County

(Kavinoky Theatre)

The Clean House

(Road Less Traveled Theatre)

33 Variations

(MusicalFare)

The Whipping Man

(Jewish Repertory Theatre of WNY)

OUTSTANDING ENSEMBLE OF A PLAY

August: Osage County

(Kavinoky Theatre)

Dancing at Lughnasa

(Irish Classical Theatre)

Fox on the Fairway

(Kaleidoscope)

From the Mississippi Delta

(Road Less Traveled Theatre)

L’Imitation of Life

(Buffalo United Artists)

OUTSTANDING PRODUCTION OF A MUSICAL

Knuffle Bunny

(Theatre of Youth)

The Music Man

(MusicalFare)

The Mystery of Edwin Drood

(Kavinoky Theatre)

Next to Normal

(Irish Classical Theatre)

’Swonderful: The New Gershwin Musical

(MusicalFare)

OUTSTANDING ENSEMBLE OF A MUSICAL

Crowns

(Paul Robeson Theatre)

First Lady Suite

(American Repertory Theatre)

Next to Normal

(Irish Classical Theatre)

Rent

(MusicalFare)

’Swonderful: The New Gershwin Musical

(MusicalFare)