Held at the Hudson Theater, the Gala will also celebrate NYMF's 10 years of creating and nurturing new musical theatre.

"Billy Porter is one of the rare individuals whose talent truly excels in any medium," Dan Markley, executive director and producer of The New York Musical Theatre Festival, said in a statement. "Billy's work as a director was a highlight of our 2008 Festival, and on our 10th Anniversary, we are thrilled to honor this multi-talented artist for his many contributions to the theatre."

Porter is currently starring on Broadway in the Tony-winning musical Kinky Boots. His stage credits also include Miss Saigon, Smokey Joe's Cafe, Grease, Angels In America and Songs For A New World. His film and TV work includes "The Broken Hearts Club," "Shake Rattle & Roll," "Noel," "Law & Order" and "The Big C."

Porter will be honored via performances by both his friends and NYMF alumni.

The evening will be hosted by Susan Blackwell ([title of show], Volleygirls). Past NYMF honorees have included Tony nominee Kelli O'Hara, Tony winner Chita Rivera, NBC "Smash" creators Neil Meron and Craig Zadan, Grammy Award-winning Sh-K-Boom Records, NYC television news program NY1 On Stage, Broadway producers Barry and Fran Weissler, Kevin McCollum and Robyn Goodman.

Tickets and more information can be found by calling 212-664-0979 ext. 12 or by visiting nymf.org/gala.