I adore the fact that in all of Harvard’s centuries-long history of solid academic programs, illustrious alumni, and assorted pomp and circumstance, the hallowed Ivy League school is also renowned for its cross-dressing burlesque troupe of actors, the Hasty Pudding Theatricals. 

The outlandish group has been regaling audiences since 1795–and yes, hasty pudding did play a key factor in its first group meeting. “The Pudding” is composed of all male performers—hence the hilarious cross-dressing performances—although female students at Harvard are invited to be a part of the creative and production teams.

Each year, The Pudding selects stars of the stage and screen for their Man and Woman of the Year distinction. This year, Oscar® nominee Anne Hathaway has been chosen as the 2010 Woman of the Year. In addition to her work in such films as Rachel Getting Married, The Devil Wears Prada, and The Princess Diaries, Hathaway has also had a notable stint on stage in Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, which was performed in New York City’s Central Park.

Past Women of the Year include Renee Zellweger, Charlize Theron, and Drew Barrymore. This year’s Man of the Year has yet to be announced, but he will be joining the ranks of previous honorees including Christopher Walken, Ben Stiller, and Robert Downey, Jr.

While the Hasty Pudding Theatrical’s Woman of the Year recognition can’t compare to that of an actual Oscar® or Golden Globe, it’s still pretty darn cool. Hathaway will be lauded with a raucous parade down Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge on January 28, which will be followed by a roast in her honor. Way to go, Anne!

–Barbara Bellesi