EDWARD Albee’s “The Goat” and Ovid’s “Metamorphoses” tied for the Drama Desk Award for best play last night – a surprising result that underscores how tight the race for the Tony is between these two shows.
“Thoroughly Modern Millie” was named best musical.
Its leading lady, 27-year-old Sutton Foster, picked up a Drama Desk, as did supporting cast member Harriet Harris, and Michael Mayer an award for his direction of the show.
“Into the Woods” was named best revival, edging out “Oklahoma!” – which was thought to have a lock on the award.
The London import “Private Lives” won revival of a play.
Lindsay Duncan, who plays Amanda in the Noel Coward comedy, was named best actress in a play.
Elaine Stritch won the Drama Desk for solo performance for her acclaimed show, “Elaine Stritch at Liberty.”
Other Drama Desk winners included Alan Bates (“Fortune’s Fool”), Shuler Hensley (“Oklahoma!”), John Lithgow (“Sweet Smell of Success”), Frank Langella (“Fortune’s Fool”) and Kate Finneran (“Noises Off”).
The Drama Desk is made up of over 200 reporters and editors who cover the New York theater.