My 2010 Pulitzer Prize For Drama

For only the eighth time since 1918, a musical has won the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. 'Next To Normal' pulled a surprised upset over three nominated plays to become what is essentially a write-in vote victory. The last musical to claim this prize was Jonathan Larson's 'Rent' in 1996. This year's prize did not come without controversy. The before mentioned winning from a non-nominated status is equivalent to the Academy Award picking 'Wall-E' to be Best Picture last year. Also, the musical debuted in 2008, instead of 2009, during its off-Broadway run and had many critics and predictors deeming it ineligible.

I've made it no secret how much I adore this musical, closing the gap as my favorite stage production to 'The Light In The Piazza' with each listen of the cast recording. I couldn't be happier to see the heart wrenching musical win the prize despite losing Best Musical last year to 'Billy Elliott'. (Playbill)