Photo Coverage: Audra McDonald Honored with Pipe Night at The Players

Pipe Nights began at The Players at the turn of the century as a men's cigar evening. Tobacco was given out and members were told to bring their pipes. By 1936, Pipe Nights had evolved into testimonials honoring artists for their contributions to the American Stage. Though pipes are now forbidden, the tradition continues. Past recipients of Pipe Nights include Charlie Chaplin, John Barrymore, Frank Sinatra, Carol Burnett, Mary Tyler Moore, and more.

In 1888, Edwin Booth, America's pre-eminent Shakespearean actor, and 15 other incorporators, including Mark Twain and General Tecumseh Sherman, founded The Players. Its purpose: ?The promotion of social intercourse between members of the dramatic profession and the kindred professions of literature, painting, architecture, sculpture and music, law and medicine, and the patrons of the arts. Today, The Players continues to preserve its heritage by remaining a repository of both American and British theater history, memorabilia and theatrical artifacts. The Players FOUNDATION FOR THEATRE EDUCATION is a 501 (c)(3) organization. More information at: http://www.theplayersnyc.org.