“Giant,” based on the 1952 Edna Ferber novel of the same name, made it’s off-Broadway premiere at the Public Theater this winter, and “Hands on a Hardbody,” a show with songs co-written by Phish founder Trey Anastasio, based on a documentary film, both earned nine nominations Monday. “Matilda,” “Passion” and “Drood” each captured seven.

Shows with six nominations are “A Christmas Story: The Musical,” “Chaplin: The Musical,” “Pippin” and “The Other Josh Cohen.”

The Drama Desk, an organization of theater journalists and critics, honors Broadway and off-Broadway productions.

The awards will be presented May 19 at The Town Hall.