The event, which raises money each year for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, is the culmination of a six-week period of intensive fundraising by the assorted Broadway, Off-Broadway and national touring shows. This year, the fundraiser raised a near-record $3,345,997 for the charity. The record was set in 2004 when $3,435,997 was collected for BC/EFA.

The national tour of Jersey Boys won the prize for most money raised at $236,844. For the creative part of the competition, the company of Journey's End won for its bonnet skit, and The Phantom of the Opera won for bonnet construction.

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At left (from top): Stephanie J. Block and Bebe Neuwirth; Walter Bobbie; Jose Llana; Joyce Randolph; Richard M. Sherman; John Connolly and Joan Didion; Tom Jones; Baayork Lee; Vanessa Redgrave and David Hyde Pierce announce the winners of the Easter Bonnet Competition.

Below (from top): Raúl Esparza (right) leads the finale of the Easter Bonnet Competition; representatives from The Lion King; the grand total of $3,345,997 is announced.

photos by Aubrey Reuben