The evening — which will begin at 6:30 PM with a cocktail reception followed by dinner and performance at 7:30 PM — will honor both Tony-winning composer Jerry Herman and the Wing's corporate partner, Visa Inc.
The performance will feature tunes from Herman's award-winning repertoire interpreted by theatre actors. Those taking part in the performance will be announced at a later date; Jon Wilner is producing the entertainment.
In a statement Wing chairman Sondra Gilman said, "Jerry Herman has brought joy to theatergoers around the world with his inspired songs and shows. It is impossible to think of the American musical without thinking of Jerry Herman. He is deserving of every possible accolade, which is why we are so proud to be recognizing his lifetime of work as part of our work at the Wing."
"Visa is equally deserving of praise and recognition by the Wing and indeed the entire Broadway community," Gilman added. "They are the model of a corporate partner for the arts and have been instrumental not only in enhancing the profile of the Tony Awards, but in supporting the Wing's educational and informational efforts across the country."
Composer Herman said in a statement, "Since I consider the American Theatre Wing to be the very heart of Broadway, to have been chosen by them is the ultimate honor, for which I am most moved and grateful." Previous galas have honored Matthew Broderick, Carol Channing, James Earl Jones, Nathan Lane and Tommy Tune.
One of the theatre's most celebrated composers, Jerry Herman has written the scores for such Broadway musicals as Milk and Honey; Hello, Dolly!; Mame; Dear World; Mack & Mabel; The Grand Tour and La Cage aux Folles. He also contributed songs to A Day in Hollywood/A Night in the Ukraine, and revues of his work include Jerry's Girls and An Evening with Jerry Herman. The songwriter won Tony Awards for his scores for Hello, Dolly! and La Cage aux Folles.
Tickets for the black-tie gala, priced $700-$2,500, are available by calling (212) 765-0606, ext. 302.
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The American Theatre Wing is best known as the creator of the Antoinette Perry "Tony" Awards®, which it presents annually with the Broadway League. For more information visit www.americantheatrewing.org.
