George Street Playhouse announced that its Annual Gala Benefit was the most successful in the event’s history, raising a record amount of funds in support of its main-stage and educational programming. The Heldrich Hotel in New Brunswick hosted the gala on Sunday, April 2, 2017, and featured many stars of the stage and screen as presenters and performers.
“As we celebrate our theatre’s bright future, the unprecedented success of the 2017 gala is a testament to the unbending support of our patrons and community,” said Kelly Ryman, managing director of the Playhouse. “We are thrilled to have them on the journey with us for the next two seasons and for the grand opening of our new home in the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center in 2019.”
Among the highlights of the evening’s cabaret were presenters Tim Daly (TV’s Wings, Madam Secretary), Tony Award-winning playwright Joe DiPietro, and stage and screen stars Betsy Aidem (Broadway’s All the Way) and Dan Lauria (TV’s The Wonder Years).
George Street Playhouse Artistic Director David Saint received the Arthur Laurents Award for Distinguished Artistic Achievement in celebration of his 20th season in that role. It was presented by legendary screenwriter, film director and actress Elaine May.
The Thomas H. Kean Arts Advocacy Award was bestowed upon Marlene and Tony Volpe, longtime supporters of George Street Playhouse, by the namesake of the award, Gov. Kean.
George Street Playhouse is an Out In Jersey magazine business partner. More information at www.gsponline.org.
