The Suzi Bass Awards

Atlanta

The Suzi Bass Awards, (Atlanta) established in 2003 in Atlanta to honor actress and arts advocate Suzi Bass, have become a mainstay in Georgia’s cultural life. Incorporated in 2005 and marking their 20th anniversary in 2025, the awards spotlight excellence across more than 30 categories, from acting and directing to design, choreography, and new plays. The “Suzis” are modeled after the Tony Awards, and they bring visibility and validation to artists and theatre companies across metro Atlanta and beyond. Each year, trained volunteer judges view productions, and numerous artists are honored as nominees or winners. A nomination or win often boosts ticket sales, strengthens donor or grant support, and attracts new audiences, while the “Suzi Recommended” designation elevates productions during their runs, increasing community interest and involvement. Beyond recognizing artists and productions, the organization fosters professional growth through panels, workshops, and networking events, while reexamining practices to ensure strong opportunities for engagement and recognition. Each fall, the awards ceremony unites Georgia’s theatre community in celebration. With two decades of impact, the Suzi Bass Awards strengthen and advance the state’s performing arts.

Q&A with the Honoree

Q: In what ways do communities benefit when they invest in the arts and humanities?

A: “Communities thrive when they invest in the arts because they preserve cultural history, elevate diverse stories, and create places where people feel represented. When communities support the arts, they attract people to the city, cultivate connection, creativity, economic vitality, and a shared sense of who they are.” - Donna O. Willis, Interim Board Chair for Suzi Awards