SAN FRANCISCO: Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation (SDCF) has presented the 2018 Zelda Fichandler Award to Loretta Greco, artistic director of Magic Theatre. Originally accepted by Taylor Mac on Greco’s behalf in New York City last November, Greco received the award at a ceremony hosted by Larry Goldfarb last week.

“The Magic Theatre board of directors felt that an honor this important should be celebrated with Loretta’s peers in San Francisco,” Goldfarb said in a statement. “We are thrilled that Pam MacKinnon, SDC president, and Laura Penn, SDC executive director, among others, will be in our great city to present Loretta with the Zelda Fichandler Award.”

Created in honor of Arena Stage’s founder, the Zelda Fichandler Award annually recognizes directors and choreographers who have made prominent achievements in the field with an investment in a particular community or region. Greco, who has served as the Magic Theatre’s artistic director for more than 10 years, has premiered new works by artists such as Taylor Mac, Han Ong, and Penelope Skinner. She has also directed productions for the Public Theater and ACT.

“This award aims to highlight the important work of the Foundation, which is to serve directors and choreographers at every stage of career while celebrating the craft, artistry, and dedication of the winner and finalists,” SDCF board president Sheldon Epps said in a statement. “I thank our colleagues on the Fichandler Committee for their service. I join them in congratulating Loretta, as well as the distinguished finalists.”

Finalists for the 2018 Zelda Fichandler Award include Michael John Garcés, Ron May, and Art Rotch.