The prestigious Susan Smith Blackburn prize, dedicated to female, transgender, and non-binary playwrights, has been awarded to the American writer ak payne for their moving and humorous play “Furlough’s Paradise.”

payne describes the play as a “lyrical journey” exploring themes of grief, identity of home, and resilience. It centers on two cousins, one of whom is granted a three-day furlough from prison, as they return to their hometown to attend a funeral.

Expressing profound gratitude for receiving the award, payne pays homage to past winners like Katori Hall, Julia Cho, Lynn Nottage, Sarah Ruhl, Benedict Lombe, and Paula Vogel, whose work has deeply influenced their journey as a writer.

The prize includes a $25,000 cash award (equivalent to £19,000) and a signed artwork by artist Willem de Kooning. “Furlough’s Paradise” was nominated for the award by the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia, where it debuted in 2024.

Oscar winner Tarell Alvin McCraney, known for “Moonlight,” lauds “Furlough’s Paradise” for its exploration of seeking solace in a flawed justice system. McCraney, who was payne’s professor at Yale University’s David Geffen School of Drama, praises payne as “one of the most powerful writers” they’ve encountered.

Next month, the play is set to be performed at the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles, where McCraney serves as artistic director.

The Susan Smith Blackburn prize has also recognized “49 Days” by Haruna Lee and “An Oxford Man” by Else Went with special commendations. Other finalists include “Otherland” by Chris Bush, currently showing at London’s Almeida Theatre. The previous year’s winner, “1536” by Ava Pickett, will be staged at the Almeida in May.

This year’s judges encompass a range of theatre professionals, including costume designer Linda Cho, actors Indira Varma and Jennifer Ehle, Nancy Medina of the Bristol Old Vic, playwright Mark Ravenhill, and George Strus, the founder of New York’s Breaking the Binary theatre firm.