WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - s4story -- (South Florida – May 28, 2025) Gary Schweikhart, president of the Carbonell Awards, South Florida's Theater & Arts Honors, today announced the recipients of this year's prestigious George Abbott Award. It will be presented at the 48^th annual Carbonell Awards Ceremony on Monday, November 17, at 7:30 p.m. at FAU's University Theatre in Boca Raton.

The George Abbott Award

for Outstanding Achievement in the Arts

Honoring an individual (or team) who has contributed significantly to the artistic and cultural development of the region. The award may be given for accomplishments within the year, or for a lifetime.

William Hayes & Sue Ellen Beryl

Co-Founders, Palm Beach Dramaworks

In December 2000, at a rundown, soon-to-be-demolished theatre at Palm Beach Atlantic University, a new, nonprofit theatre company produced its first-ever show, the aptly named Greetings! Starting out with a shoestring budget of $10,000, which included the cost of renting the theatre, the company would produce three plays in its first season. The response from patrons and critics was encouraging. As one critic said following the premiere of Greetings!, "Time [and] the group's resolve… will tell whether Palm Beach Dramaworks has staying power."

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Indeed, it has. PBD has long been acknowledged as one of South Florida's most invaluable arts organizations, thanks in large measure to the visionary leadership and tenacious fiscal management of two of its founders, Producing Artistic Director William Hayes and Sue Ellen Beryl, who is stepping down as managing director on September 1.

The award-winning company, which recently celebrated its 25^th anniversary, produces Theatre to Think About: classic and contemporary plays, overlooked works of significance, and world premieres that inspire, engage, challenge, and entertain audiences while illuminating our shared humanity. PBD is also recognized for its stimulating educational programs, robust community engagement, and as an important incubator for new works. Among its many honors are the 2016 Muse Award for Outstanding Major Arts & Cultural Organization from the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County, and the 2024 Non-Profit of the Year from the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches.

Attached Image:

William Hayes & Sue Ellen Beryl

(Photo Credit: Curtis Brown Photography)

Media Contact:

Gary Schweikhart

Carbonell Board President

561.756.4298

gary@pr-bs.net