Theater Latté Da, the Twin Cities-based company founded and run by deft director Peter Rothstein (above), has won recognition from the American Theatre Wing, the New York outfit best known for producing the Tonys.

Instead of a trophy, Latté Da gets cache and hard cash.

The company is one of ten nationally that have each been awarded a $10,000 grant for operating support. Other winners include Constellation Theatre of Washington, D.C., The Cutting Ball Theatre and True Colors Theatre of Atlanta.

Rothstein called the award "a tremendous honor." He added: "We are humbled to share this award with colleagues from around the country who are creating adventurous work and making a significant impact in their communities."

Latte Da's production of "Steerage Song" premieres Sept.r 25 at The Lab Theater, 700 N 1st Street, Mpls. Rothstein directs with composer Dan Chouinard.