Awards
National Medal of Arts
In 2012, Washington Performing Arts received The National Medal of Arts. The award is the highest award given to artists and arts patrons by the United States government. The National Medal of Arts is awarded by the President of the United States to individuals or groups who “…are deserving of special recognition by reason of their outstanding contributions to the excellence, growth, support, and availability of the arts in the United States.”
Ambassador of the Arts
The Washington Performing Arts Ambassador of the Arts Award was established in 2013 to recognize extraordinary achievement, service, and advocacy in the performing arts.
The Reggie Award
“The Reggie” is an annual award established in 2018 to honor former Washington Performing Arts Board Chair Reginald Van Lee, and granted to a high school junior or senior member of the Washington Performing Arts Children of the Gospel Choir to pursue additional arts-related education or activities.
Pola Nirenska Award
The Pola Nirenska Awards celebrates trailblazers and leaders of the dance community. Named in honor of the illustrious D.C. modern dance teacher and choreographer, and supported by her late husband, Dr. Jan Karski, the Pola Nirenska Awards annually honor individuals who have made an impact on the field of dance locally and oftentimes nationally. Each year, award recipients are chosen by a committee of arts professionals and granted by Washington Performing Arts. The awards reflect the Washington Performing Arts commitment to sustaining and nurturing performing artists and their art forms.