In a recent newsletter, local theatre N.C. Stage Company writes, "We are honored to be one of 10 theatres in the entire country to receive a National Theatre Company grant from American Theatre Wing, the founder of the Tony Awards. This prestigious grant is awarded to non-profit regional theatres. American Theatre WIng is flying our Artistic Director Charlie to NY to accept the award and participate in a weekend of events for the winning theatres!"

According to American Theatre Wing's website, the organization has "long shown its dedication to not-for-profit theatres through its Theatre Company Grants Program. The ATW Grants have distributed some $3 million dollars over the past 55 years.

"The National Theatre Company Grants, launched in 2010, distributes $10,000 grants for general operating support to companies which, according to grant guidelines, have been in operation at least five, but not more than fifteen years, have articulated a distinctive mission, cultivated an audience, and nurtured a community of artists in ways that strengthen and demonstrate the quality, diversity, and dynamism of American theatre."

Find the full list of 2012 awards recipients here: http://americantheatrewing.org/grants/recipients_2012.php