The evening — which included a cocktail reception followed by dinner and a performance — honored both Tony-winning composer Jerry Herman (Mame, Hello Dolly!, La Cage aux Folles) and the Wing's corporate partner, Visa Inc.

The 7:30 performance featured tunes from Herman's extensive, award-winning repertoire performed by an impressive lineup of musical theatre talent. Jon Wilner served as producer for 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."

Previous galas have honored Matthew Broderick, Carol Channing, James Earl Jones, Nathan Lane and Tommy Tune. 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.

Here is a look at a few of those in attendance at the Monday evening event:

Robin De Jesus		Kerry Butler

Karen Ziemba and Martha Plimpton		Donna McKechnie

Brian Stokes Mitchell and wife Allyson Tucker		Patrick Stewart

Jim Dale		Leslie Kritzer

Faith Prince		Kelli O'Hara and husband Greg Naughton

Kevin Burrows, Hannah Waddingham and Christopher Sieber

ATW Board of Directors President Doug Leeds, honoree Jerry Herman and ATW Executive Director Howard Sherman