Michael Crawford Awarded CBE & Named British Commander For Charity Work

Internationally celebrated stage and screen performer Michael Crawford has been awarded a CBE by Queen Elizabeth II this week in honor of his long-standing work with children's charities.

Crawford commented on the stately honor of officially becoming a Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire by stating, "It is the most wonderful surprise. My very first thought when I received the news was how proud my mother would be."

Additionally, Crawford added, "I do thank most sincerely those who are responsible for my receiving this great honor and to all my friends and colleagues at The Sick Children's Trust, I'm proud to be a part of our very special charity."

Of note, Crawford was previously named an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire - being award an OBE - in 1986 following the international success of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, for which he also received the Tony Award for Best Actor In A Musical.

Additionally, fellow theatrical luminaries Angela Lansbury, Gillian Lynne and Penelope Keith were also royally appointed today, as BroadwayWorld reported here.

Check out the original article on the matter here.