The American Theatre Wing raised more than $550,000 at their annual Gala last night. All of the proceeds will go towards The Wing's education and outreach programs. The event was held at New York's legendary Plaza Hotel in honor of Sir Howard Stringer (Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of Sony Corporation and longtime American Theatre Wing Board Member), and included a special tribute to Douglas B. Leeds (Former President and dear friend of The Wing).
Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg was on hand to proclaim the date "American Theatre Wing Day in Honor of Sir Howard Stringer" in the City of New York. The Mayor's official proclamation stated, "We applaud the exceptional efforts of the American Theatre Wing and Sir Howard Stringer for their crucial contributions to the performing arts in New York City, and look forward to seeing the performing arts community thrive on the Great White Way and stages across the five boroughs."
Also taking the stage was a slew of celebrity performers and presenters, including Jennifer Hudson, Angela Lansbury, Kelli O'Hara, Elaine Paige, Marilu Henner, James Naughton, Brandon Victor Dixon, Colin Donnell and Erin Mackey.
Tom Hanks served as the evening's Honorary Chairman, and the Gala Co-Chairmen were Theodore S. Chapin and Marva A. Smalls. The Gala Committee included Susan Stevenson Brown, David Bruson, Susan Fales-Hill, Sondra Gilman, LaTanya Richardson & Samuel L. Jackson, Mrs. Ronald S. Konecky, Pia Lindström, Bruce Redditt, Malaak & Chris Rock, Jane & Morley Safer, Alan Siegel and Mark W. Smith.
The American Theatre Wing is best known as the creator of the Antoinette Perry "Tony" Awards®, which it presents annually with The Broadway League. The Wing operates a variety of programs, all dedicated to recognizing excellence and supporting education in theatre. These programs include "Downstage Center," a podcast featuring in-depth interviews with the leading artists and professionals working on stage today; "Working in the Theatre," a television program on CUNY TV which gathers panels of theater artists to discuss their crafts; "In the Wings," a web series that spotlights theatre's behind-the-scenes talents; a national theatre company grants program that supports 10 emerging theatres across the country each year; the Theatre Intern Group, a career development program for young professionals; SpringboardNYC, a two-week college-to-career boot camp for young performers moving to NYC; and the Jonathan Larson® Grants, given annually to honor emerging composers, lyricists and book writers. All ATW media is available on americantheatrewing.org and on iTunes.
For additional information about all American Theatre Wing programs, go to americantheatrewing.org.
Photo Credit: Kevin Thomas Garcia
