UJA-Federation of New York honors Michael David at 2013 Excellence in Theater Award Dinner

Broadway's elite gathered to honor Michael David, president of Dodger Properties, at UJA-Federation of New York's Theater Division's 2013 Excellence in Theater Award Dinner on Monday, November 26, 2012, at the St. Regis New York, New York City.

Michael David is the president of Dodger Properties (the "Dodgers"), a theatrical producing partnership still standing after more than thirty years in New York City, comprising Michael David, Edward Strong, Rocco Landesman, and Des McAnuff. The Dodgers are responsible for more than 150 productions on Broadway, and Off Broadway, and in North America, London, Europe, and Australasia. Productions include JERSEY BOYS, currently on Broadway, and with six other productions in the United States, London, Australia, and the Far East; Matilda, on Broadway beginning March 4, 2013; 42nd Street; Into The Woods; Urinetown; Titanic; The Who's Tommy; Guys and Dolls; The King and I; Ralph Fiennes' Hamlet; The Secret Garden; and Big River. Their productions have received a host of awards from Broadway's Tonys (51) and Off-Broadway's Obies, to London's Oliviers and Australia's Helpmanns.

Prior to forming the Dodgers, Michael David was executive director of New York's celebrated Chelsea Theater Center from 1969 to1978, while also, from 1972 to 1980, an adjunct professor at the Yale University School of Drama, of which he is a graduate. He was president of the subversive Independent Producers Group, is a member of the Executive Committee of the Broadway League and the Tony Award Administration Committee, and a board member of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids.

In a surprise special performance, the cast of the Tony, Grammy and Olivier Award-winning JERSEY BOYS, a musical biography of the Four Seasons produced by Dodger Properties and now celebrating its 7th year on Broadway, captivated the event's attendees. Matt Bogart as Nick Massi, Drew Gehling as Bob Gaudio, Jeremy Kushnier as Tommy DeVito, and Jarrod Spector as Frankie Valli entertained the audience with hit songs from the show. Tony and Emmy Award-winning actor and singer Mandy Patinkin also treated guests to a special performance. Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, co-authors of JERSEY BOYS, hosted the event.

Funds raised will be contributed to UJA-Federation of New York's annual campaign, which sustains the activity of nearly 100 health, human-service, educational, and community-building agencies.