Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Linda Emond Among Equity Award Winners

Justin Boone and Ruben Santiago-Hudson
in Joe Turner's Come and Gone.
Credit: Julieta Cervantes

Just when you thought we were running out of theater awards, here comes another batch. The Actors' Equity Foundation Award winners have been announced. Presented by the stage actors' union, the accolades honor newcomers, veteran performers, and actors tackling classical roles. The 2026 Clarence Derwent Awards go to McKenzie Kurtz (Schmigadoon, Heathers) and Ali Louis Boutzgui (The Lost Boys). Established in 1945, the Derwent Awards are for the outstanding performances by those at the beginning of their careers.

The 2026 Richard Seff Awards will be presented to Ruben Santiago-Hudson (Joe Turner's Come and Gone) and Linda Emond (Becky Shaw). Established in 2004, the Seff Awards are for outstanding performers over 50 who have been in Equity for at least 25 years. 

The Joseph Calloway Award, established in 1989, for the best performances in a classic play goes to McKinley Belcher III (Titus Andronicus, Coriolanus) and Olivia Reis (Oedipus, Titus Andronicus).

The Judges Panel for the 2025-2026 seasonal performance awards included Joe Dziemianowicz, New York Theatre Guide; Adam Feldman, Time Out New York; Elysa Gardner, New York Sun, New York Stage Review; Kobi Kassal, Theatrely; and Frank Scheck, Hollywood Reporter, New York Stage Review. The awards will be presented on June 22 at the Green Fig in Manhattan in a ceremony hosted by Julie Halston.