2009 Pulitzer Prize for Drama

The 2009 Pulitzer Prizes have been announced.

The Drama category -- which is a $10,000 award to a distinguished play by an American author -- went to Ruined, by Lynn Nottage, a searing drama set in chaotic Congo that compels audiences to face the horror of wartime rape and brutality while still finding affirmation of life and hope amid hopelessness.

Also nominated as finalists in this category were: Becky Shaw, by Gina Gionfriddo, a jarring comedy that examines family and romantic relationships with a lacerating wit while eschewing easy answers and pat resolutions; and In The Heights, by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Quiara Alegría Hudes, a robust musical about struggling Latino immigrants in New York City today that celebrates the virtues of sacrifice, family solidarity and gritty optimism.