Gabriel Byrne will present the Irish American Writer's & Artists annual Eugene O'Neill Lifetime Achievement Award to Irish Rep founders Charlotte Moore and Ciarán O'Reilly, in an evening of "literary libation."

Opening its doors in 1988 with Sean O'Casey's “The Plough and the Stars,” the Irish Rep has consistently pursued its mission to bring works of the highest quality by Irish and Irish American masters and contemporary playwrights to American audiences.

Gabriel Byrne has a long association with Eugene O'Neill having won a Tony nomination for best actor in “Moon For the Misbegotten” and an Outer Circle Critics Award for his acclaimed performance in “A Touch of the Poet."

Bestselling author, actor, singer, raconteur and IAW&A Board member, Malachy McCourt will host a brief program that will include a short video send-up of the Irish Rep and its founders, narrated by Fritz Weaver.

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New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn will open the proceedings with the presentation of an official proclamation in honor of the Irish Repertory, its founders, and the Eugene O'Neill Award.

The celebration surrounding the O'Neill Award has a convivial, casual cocktail party atmosphere, with much conversation and mingling with guests both famous and infamous, live traditional Irish music, an extensive array of appetizers and desserts, and an open bar. The evening begins at 6 p.m and continues until 10 p.m.

Advance ticket purchase is strongly recommended by ordering online at www.i-am-wa.org.