Benefits and GalasInside the 2019 Thespians Go Hollywood Gala Honoring Bernadette PetersThe annual event supporting school theatre featured performances by Megan Hilty, Matthew Morrison, and more.
By
Nathan Skethway
November 20, 2019
The Educational Theatre Foundation's annual Thespians Go Hollywood gala, which supports theatre education in schools, was held November 18 at 6:30 PM at Los Angeles' Avalon Hollywood. The event included performances from Rachel Bloom (Crazy Ex-Girlfriend), Merle Dandridge (Once On This Island), Megan Hilty (Smash, Noises Off), Jennifer Kumiyama (Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular), and Matthew Morrison (Glee, Finding Neverland); they were joined by host Nia Vardalos, as well as Bernadette Peters, who was being honored with the Craig Zadan Theatre for Life Award.
Named for the late producer who posthumously received the first honor in 2018 along with producing partner Neil Meron, the Theatre for Life Award recognizes an individual who has been dedicated to promoting and preserving the joy of theatre, inspiring young artists, and leaving a lasting impact on generations to come.
Now in its fourth year, Thespians Go Hollywoodsupports theatre education programs for schools in need with a cabaret show that features appearances from film, theatre, and television professionals, as well as current high school students.
Flip through photos from the gala below:
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Inside the 2019 Thespians Go Hollywood Gala Honoring Bernadette Peters
Co-chairs of the 2019 benefit were Robert Greenblatt, chairman of Warner Media Entertainment and Direct to Consumer, and film and television producer Meron. Members of the host committee included Sara Bareilles, Kristin Chenoweth, Harry Connick, Jr., Harvey Fierstein, Victor Garber, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Lauren Graham, Sean Hayes, Kenny Leon, Seth MacFarlane, Audra McDonald, Debra Messing, Dolly Parton, Stamos, Marlo Thomas, Vardalos, and Renée Zellweger.
Proceeds from the event support Self Help Africa's work to alleviate hunger, poverty, social inequality, and the impact of climate change in sub-Saharan Africa.
Proceeds from the event support Self Help Africa's work to alleviate hunger, poverty, social inequality, and the impact of climate change in sub-Saharan Africa.
The Alicia Keys musical made its world premiere at the Off-Broadway company and is due to begin performances at the Shubert Theatre on Broadway March 28.
The gala will feature performances from Birch and Cariou's extensive theatrical careers, including Grease, They’re Playing Our Song, and A Little Night Music.
DIFFA raises awareness and grants funds to organizations that provide treatment, direct care services, preventive education programs, and advocacy for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS, food and housing insecurities, and mental health issues