This year’s Kenneth Tynan Award, which recognises dramaturgy in theatre and dance, has been presented to Ruth Little, for her work on Desh by the Akram Khan Company.

The Dramaturgs’ Network has recognised Little for her research on the Olivier award-winning show and her “contribution to the advancement of dramaturgy”.

The other shortlisted nominees included Tinderbox theatre company’s artistic director Michael Duke, for “changing the theatre landscape in Northern Ireland over the past decade”.

Meanwhile, touring company Out of Joint’s director Max Stafford-Clark was nominated for his “discovery, commissioning, development and promotion of women playwrights” which has “changed the commissioning culture in women’s favour across the UK”.

Little is currently associate director at artist-led environmental charity Cape Farewell. She was previously artistic associate at the Young Vic and literary manager at Soho Theatre and the Royal Court.

She said: “If the award helps to develop a wider understanding of the value of dramaturgical process in many different contexts, then I’m honoured to be part of it. Thanks to the Dramaturgs’ Network and to the panel.”