 The event was hosted by Julie Halston with script contributions by Matthew Freeman, opening number performed by Scott Williams and directed by Christopher Borg and a presentation by The Brick Theater Company.The 2009 Artistic Achievement Award for significant artistic contribution to the Off-Off-Broadway community was presented by Nilo Cruz to Maria Irene Fornes.The 2009 Stewardship Award for significant contribution to the Off-Off-Broadway community through service, support and leadership was presented by Commissioner of Cultural Affairs Kate D. Levin to Harriet Taub and Materials for the Arts.