Drama League Centennial Gala: Bernadette Peters

A few months ago I had the distinct pleasure of working with The Drama League again at their annual Gala, also a night in honor of the Broadway star and immense talent, Bernadette Peters. This year’s Gala was also especially monumental, as it was the Drama League Centennial Gala, a huge achievement to mark in the world of non-profits, which is one of the reasons I love to help support them. 

As always, it was a night of lights and music, grand choruses and many smiles, a true testament to the life and vibrancy that can only come from live theatre. Not only did the likes of Michael Douglas, Joey Grey, and Gloria Estefan came out to support Ms. Peters lifetime of achievements, but the fabulously gifted (and one of my personal favorites) Annaleigh Ashford also sang with an adorable pup in tow; what more could you ask of a show?!

It was without a doubt a moving night for Ms. Peters, who may have shed a tear or two while giving her thanks at the end of the evening. Many words of praise were said that night for her, and every one was without a doubt deserved. Congratulations Bernadette, and thanks for the worlds you brought to life, both on stage and on screen.

The 2015 Drama League Awards

This past May I had the pleasure of rejoining the Drama League for their annual Drama League Awards ceremony, honoring the talented theatrical community members of Broadway and Off-Broadway productions. It's always such a pleasure to work with the Drama League and their amazing crew, so needless to say this was one of my favorite events to cover over the spring (I also got to meet Joel Grey, a personal favorite of mine, and it easily made my day - I'm so glad he received the Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theater Award). 

Not only did everyone share wonderful speeches and anecdotes about their peers and coworkers, but there were enough jokes all around to fill the room with humor and enthusiasm the whole time. My personal favorites were when Nathaniel Parker started reciting Herman's Hermits lyrics and when Kristin Chenoweth decided to stand atop her chair to make up for her petite size; she had the whole room doubled over in laughter. Every person there had a special story to share, and it was lovely to hear so many heartfelt words of appreciation and gratitude for the theatrical community and their fellow actors.

Here are some of the highlights and my favorite shots from the day, and can't wait to be back working with the Drama League again soon!

 

A Night for James Earl Jones

Near the end of January (where has the past month gone!?) I had the immense pleasure of working with the Drama League photographing their annual Gala Fundraising event. Every year, the League honors someone with their Lifetime Achievement award, and they selected none other than EGOT winner, Mr. Darth Vader himself, the larger-than-life James Earl Jones. Not only was I honored to be part of such a prestigious event, but I also had the opportunity to meet and photograph many prominent members of the theatrical community, which was truly an amazing experience. From the star-studded list of guests, to the fantastic live performances, it was a night I'll never forget, and hope to have the opportunity to attend again. Everyone had only words of the utmost respect and admiration for Mr. Jones as an artist, peer, and human being; Kelsey Grammer's near outburst of tears stood as a testament to the genuine and heartfelt words he expressed about James, and he was not alone in that night full of emotion and support. The Drama League put on a flawless event, and I am so proud and happy to have helped support all the important work they do for aspiring actors and actresses, as it is both necessary and progressive. Congratulations to them for hosting such a successful fundraising event, and may they have many more in the years to come.