One hundred people and productions were nominated for the 2009 Cincinnati Entertainment Awards in theater, which were bestowed Aug. 30 at Below Zero Lounge before a big, happy, socializing crowd. Let's say that again: 100 nominations. No single company dominated the 13th annual CEAs, as 11 different organizations received awards for work on 15 separate productions. In the big categories voted by critics, the Cincinnati Playhouse's production of the powerful 'Blackbird,' directed by Michael Evan Haney (pictured), was the year's outstanding drama. New Stage Collective's final production, the bittersweet Sondheim musical 'A Little Night Music,' was named outstanding musical.  

For creating and sustaining Cincinnati Young People's Theatre Festival for nearly 30 years, for keeping the Showboat Majestic afloat (literally and artistically) and for turning a deteriorating West Side movie theater into a popular performing arts venue, the Covedale Center for the Performing Arts, Tim and Jennifer Perrino and Denny Reed are being honored by the League of Cincinnati Theatres with the 2009 "Continuing Achievement Award." On Sunday evening at Below Zero Lounge in Over-the-Rhine, they'll be inducted into the Cincinnati Entertainment Awards Hall of Fame.