Brian Stokes Mitchell, Patti LuPone, and More to Honor Audra McDonald at Drama League's MUSICAL CELEBRATION OF BROADWAY, 2/11

The Drama League (Executive Director Gabriel Shanks; Artistic Director Roger T. Danforth) will honor five-time Tony Award-winner Audra McDonald at The Drama League's 29th Annual Musical Celebration of Broadway, on February 11, 2013 at the famed Pierre Hotel (2 East 61st Street). Tickets and tables are available by calling (212) 244-9494 or visiting www.dramaleague.org/audra.

The black-tie gala, featuring dozens of stars from Hollywood and Broadway in a one-night-only evening of musical selections drawn from Ms. McDonald's career, will be hosted by Broadway, TV and Film stars Taye Diggs (Rent, ABC's "Private Practice") and Phylicia Rashad ("The Cosby Show," A Raisin in the Sun). Performers include Tony Award winners Brian Stokes Mitchell, Patti LuPone, Zoe Caldwell, Steve Kazee, Nikki M. James, Anthony Crivello, Broadway veterans David Alan Grier, Victor Garber, Norm Lewis, Mary Testa, Tony Sheldon, Michael Arden, Seth Rudetsky, Nikki Renee Daniels, Valisia LeKae, and New York State Senator Tom Duane (all subject to change and availability). The production is directed by Marcia Milgrom Dodge (Ragtime) with musical direction by David Evans (Marie Christine) and produced by Mr. Danforth.

Daily additions to the cast list, and a wealth of information about the event, can be found at www.dramaleague.org/audra. The evening supports The Drama League's educational initiatives for promising young artists.

The Musical Celebration of Broadway Honoring Audra McDonald brings together 500 of New York City's most influential arts supporters, celebrities, and luminaries for a black-tie evening of cocktails, dinner, and the acclaimed, unforgettable musical revue featuring dozens of stars from film, television and theatre. The Musical Celebration of Broadway will feature songs from Audra's many Broadway triumphs, including The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess, Carousel, Ragtime, Master Class, Marie Christine, 110 In The Shade; her operatic and concert work, including her celebrated turns in Passion and Mahagonny; and her award-winning albums "Way Back To Paradise," "How Glory Goes," "Happy Songs" and "Build A Bridge."

Serge Lutens is the Signature Sponsor of The Drama League Musical Celebration of Broadway Honoring Audra McDonald, and will provide the evening's VIP Gifts for all attendees. http://us.sergelutens.com

"Audra McDonald is the once-in-a-generation performer of our time," stated Drama League Executive Director Gabriel Shanks. "We are thrilled to have the opportunity to honor her numerous achievements in film, television, recording, and theater."

The Musical Celebration of Broadway Honoring Audra McDonald raises much-needed funds for the vital education programs of The Drama League Directors Project. Since 1984, The Drama League has honored exceptional artists whose talent and passion have served as a benchmark for others, including Kristin Chenoweth, Liza Minnelli, Angela Lansbury, Patti LuPone, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Chita Rivera, Rosie O'Donnell and Terrence McNally.

Since 1916, The Drama League of New York has been at the forefront of the American Theatre community, providing talent, audiences, and prosperous support. It is one of the nation's oldest continuously-operating, not-for-profit arts advocacy and education organization.

Through its programs, initiatives and events, The Drama League indelibly transforms the lives of artists and audiences by harnessing the unique social and creative dynamism of theatre. Its nationally-renowned, award-winning efforts have two vital goals: To train and nurture the artists of tomorrow and to deepen and strengthen the audience experience.

Ticket prices start at $750, which includes the cocktail reception, dinner, and all performances. For more information, please contact The Drama League at 212.244.9494 ext 27 or click on http://dramaleague.org.

Photo Credit: Walter McBride / WM Photos