Helen Hayes Awards 2024 with Jan Du Plain: A Must-See!
The Helen Hayes Awards shine a spotlight on the outstanding achievements of professional theatres and theatre-makers in the dynamic Washington, DC region. This glamorous event marks a highlight in the local arts calendar, celebrating the exceptional talent and creativity that thrives in this vibrant community. Named after the legendary First Lady of the American Theatre, Helen Hayes, who is revered for her incredible contributions to the world of theatre, these awards honor the artists and companies that elevate the Washington, DC area to a nationally recognized theatre powerhouse. Each year, the awards pay tribute to the relentless dedication of actors, directors, playwrights, and other theatre professionals committed to excellence in their craft. The event not only recognizes those who have achieved greatness but also inspires future generations of theatre-makers to chase their dreams and enrich the rich tapestry of performance art in the nation’s capital.
Jan Du Plain is President and CEO of DuPlain Global Enterprises, Inc.
Jan began her career on her father’s award-winning weekly newspaper in California followed by a stint at a well-known literary agency in Hollywood, representing authors, screenwriters, and actors for motion picture companies.
In the late 60’s she worked as the Public Relations Liaison for CBS Cinema Center Films in NYC, in the early 70s, she served as the first official public relations director of historic Ford’s Theatre, followed by 15 years as the public relations director for WETA TV and Radio, the third largest public broadcasting station in the United States. As WETA’s public relations director, Ms. Du Plain secured success in extensive press coverage on Washington Post TV Week front page cover stories, hosted numerous special events to launch new productions, and spearheaded Washington, D.C. publicity efforts for the world premiere of documentary filmmaker, Ken Burns’ multiple award-winning TV series, The Civil War.
Jan received several awards including the National Press Club’s highest service award (Bernie Krug Award), several Vivian Awards in appreciation for her excellent service with the International Correspondents Committee at the National Press Club, and the 2012 Alice Paul Award, Women & Politics Institute, School of Public Affairs, American University. She currently serves as the National Press Club’s Vice-Chair, International Correspondents Committee, and as the Diplomatic Liaison for The American News Women’s Club.
The Gallup Leadership Institute presented Jan with its Excellence Award in 1998, and commended her for being a powerful networker, hailing her “ability to connect just the right person with just the right talent to make just the right contribution.” They extolled the impact of her work, noting, “With her help, alliances are forged and progress is made.”
Jan Du Plain is a member of the Protocol & Diplomacy International-Protocol Officers Association, Capital Speaker’s Club, THIS for Diplomats and Welcome to Washington International Clubs, to name a few.