FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FRIDAY, JANUARY 5, 2018
PR contact: Melissa Kucirek
Melissa@moxiepublicity.com or meliskucirek@gmail.com | 402-677-0930

OEAAs Performing Arts Categories Gender Inclusive

The Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards (OEAA) is pleased to announce that the 13th Annual OEAAs’ ballot for performing arts categories will be gender inclusive: best actor (play), best actor (musical), best supporting actor (play), best supporting actor (musical).

The board approved the decision based on creating a more inclusive artistic community, and to be a part of the greater progressive movement. Recent national awards like the MTV Movie & TV Awards made this change. Board members also pointed out that the Grammy awards do not distinguish categories by gender (nor do the OEAA music or visual arts categories).   

“Artists are often on the forefront of breaking boundaries and defying categorization. They represent current society by holding up a mirror, to reflect back what is already there but also demonstrate what we aspire to make of our world,” Suzanne Withem, Performing Arts Chair, said. “A thorough review of the nominating and voting process will ensure that fair consideration is given to all outstanding performances across the community, and that the winners chosen truly represent the best of Omaha.”

Local actor, Nick Butt, who appeared in BlueBarn’s production of Hir last season, pointed out that removing gender labels creates a more welcoming community for all people, and especially for those who don’t feel like they fit neatly into one of two gender boxes.

“It makes them feel more included and like, you know…people,” Butt said.

“We hope to move the needle forward on inclusivity, diversity and equity, as we celebrate the amazing contributions to Omaha’s exceptional arts community and the city as a whole,” Withem said.

The 12th Annual OEAAs take place Sunday, February 18, 2018, at Omaha Design Center. The Omaha Design Center is located at 1502 Cuming Street. Cocktail hour begins at 6 p.m.; the awards program starts at 7 p.m.

THE 12th ANNUAL OMAHA ENTERTAINMENT AND AWARDS SHOW
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2018 | 6 P.M. COCKTAIL HOUR | 7 P.M. AWARDS PROGRAM
OMAHA DESIGN CENTER | 1502 Cuming Street, Omaha, Neb.
Tickets are on-sale and cost $31.25. Purchase online at oea-awards.org.

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Mission Statement: 
 Omaha Entertainment Awards, Inc., seeks to enhance our community by planning and producing an annual awards event that uniquely recognizes the performing arts, visual arts and live music of the Omaha area. With all-star talent and red-carpet prestige, the Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards is a memorable evening that thanks the artists who keep Omaha culture alive. Visit oea-awards.org.