Theatre in the Square racks up Suzis

• Theatre in the Square won big at the first Suzi Bass Awards, earning honors in three of the four artistic categories. Named in honor of deceased Atlanta actress Suzi Bass, who died of cancer in 2002, “the Suzis” recognize excellence in Atlanta theater as well as individuals or groups “whose work mirrors Suzi Bass’ longtime embrace of professionalism in the theater.”

Although the Alliance Theatre’s musical The Color Purple won Outstanding Production, Theatre in the Square swept the other honors: Bernardine Mitchell won Outstanding Female Actor and Carol Mitchell-Leon won Outstanding Director for Mahalia, and Christopher Ekholm won Outstanding Male Actor for The Diviners.

Actress Karen Howell received the second Spirit of Suzi Bass Award (actor/director Kenny Leon received the inaugural award in 2004), while Suzi founder Gene-Gabriel Moore presented a special Spirit award to the late actress’ widower, Bob Bass.

While a milestone in Atlanta theater, the first Suzis saw some puzzling choices. Ekholm gave a fine performance in The Diviners, but played a supporting role, not a lead. Marietta’s Theatre in the Square earned nearly half of the nominations in the artistic categories, while such esteemed Atlanta playhouses as 7 Stages, True Colors Theatre and Actor’s Express attracted none. Future Suzi ceremonies will include more categories, such as design and choreography.

• In an atmosphere of weak theatrical attendance, 10 playhouses have banded together to offer an innovative, cost-saving package. For $50, the Take 5 Theatre Sample Pass buys tickets for five shows at the 10 participating theaters: 7 Stages, Aurora Theatre, Actor’s Express, Dad’s Garage, Georgia Ensemble Theatre, Georgia Shakespeare, Horizon Theatre, Synchronicity Performance Group and True Colors Theatre. Available at www.take5atlanta.com, passes are valid up to one year and patrons can choose the date and time of the performances they want to attend.