Behind the Scenes Spring 2017

GYPSY

OF

THE

YEAR

THE ACTORS FUND

E X PA N D I N G S U P P O RT B R O A D WAY B A C K WA R D S $1.9 MILLION AWARDED

FOOD GRANTS EDUCATION OUTREACH INSPIRING ACTIVISM

B R O A D WAY C A R E S . O R G

WHO’S WHO AT BROADWAY CARES

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Behind the Scenes is published by Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS 165 West 46th Street, Suite 1300 New York, NY 10036 212.840.0770 info@broadwaycares.org broadwaycares.org Tom Viola, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Lane Beauchamp, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS Larry Cook, DIRECTOR OF FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION Valerie Lau-Kee Lai, PRODUCING DIRECTOR Danny Whitman, DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT BC/EFA OFFICERS Paul Libin, PRESIDENT Robert E. Wankel, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Ira Mont, FIRST VICE PRESIDENT Thomas Schumacher, SECOND VICE PRESIDENT Mary McColl, THIRD VICE PRESIDENT Sherry Cohen, FOURTH VICE PRESIDENT Philip Birsh, TREASURER Judith Rice, SECRETARY BC/EFA BOARD OF TRUSTEES Cornelius Baker John Barnes Scott Barnes Joseph Benincasa David Binder Chris Boneau Barry Brown Kate Burton Robert Callely Kathleen Chalfant Gavin Creel Alan Cumming Gavin Darraugh Michael David B. Merle Debuskey Maria Di Dia Paul DiDonato Sam Ellis Richard Frankel Roy Harris Richard Hester Richard Jay-Alexander

Cherry Jones Nathan Lane Jay Laudato Peter Lawrence Joe Machota Nancy Mahon Kevin McCollum Terrence McNally Jerry Mitchell Bernadette Peters Chita Rivera Jordan Roth Nick Scandalios Robert Score Kate Shindle Philip J. Smith Charlotte St. Martin David Stone Stuart Thompson Tim Tompkins Tom Viola (ex-officio)

BEHIND THE SCENES Tom Viola, Lane Beauchamp, EDITORS Aaron Waytkus, LAYOUT & DESIGN Contributors Mo Brady, Sarah Cardillo, John Halpin, Chris Kenney, Sarah Mitchel, Francesca Toscano Photographers Darren Bell, Jay Brady, Mo Brady, Whitney Browne, Chris Burch, Sarah Cardillo, Kevin Carroll, Michael Carmine Di Bianco, Angelica Franklin, Kevin Thomas Garcia, Daniel T. Gramkee, Sydney Hargrove, Denise Roberts Hurlin, Genevieve Rafter Keddy, Joan Marcus, Leslie Mayer, Ashley Melón, Angel Perez, Cheri Root, Darren Santos, Ana Saramiento, Steve J. Sherman, Monica Simoes, Susan Slotoroff, Matthew Stocke, Jonathan Tichler, Francesca Toscano, Robert Walters

broadwaycares.org

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Behind the Scenes

Dear Friends: Each day, Americans of every gender, ethnicity, religion, orientation, identity and economic status turn to social service organizations across the country for a much-needed hand up and supportive shoulder.

And each day, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS is there as our collective communities those onstage, offstage and in the audience - ensure that the help those Americans need is there.

We have never been more committed in our fight for those whose voices have been silenced or marginalized. We will not allow fear or hate to impede the progress we have made. Lives depend on that. With so much bias, vitriol and “alternative facts” (here at BC/EFA we just call them “lies”) being spewed on a daily basis by pundits, spokespersons and, with shocking regularity, by politicians in the highest corridors of power, it’s important to frequently remind ourselves of the impact our efforts have on men and women we may never know.

It still astounds me that that impact provides millions of dollars of support. We get to share that support - a momentous $12.6 million last year - with individuals needing a helping hand.

In many cases we are holding open a door to resources, access and opportunity that was held open for us by someone who had gone before, faced similar challenges and pushed it open themselves.

In this issue of Behind the Scenes, you’ll learn about how you’ve been a part of that generosity of spirit and fundraising, from another successful Gypsy of the Year campaign to a record-breaking 12th edition of Broadway Backwards.

You’ll read about the good work that your support has enabled to continue at 117 food pantries, congregate meal programs and meal delivery programs across the country. This year’s food service grants will reach hundreds of thousands of men, women and children across the country facing serious challenges living with HIV/AIDS and other serious illness while struggling with diminished community resources, personal crises and economic insecurity. These grants keep families together and lift many others out of isolation and despair.

In this issue, we also celebrate the longstanding partnership between Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and The Actors Fund, exemplified by our support of the just-opened Samuel J. Friedman Health Center for the Performing Arts. Starting with a $500,000 donation for the center’s capital campaign and continuing with annual support of $800,000 most recently in 2016, you are helping provide a legacy of primary and specialty care for those who experience continued uncertainty in their health care.

Our work as a nonprofit fundraising and grant-making organization is built on our passion.

A passion to fight for social justice and equality, and to stand against those whose political efforts or policies would demean or diminish the well-being of those for whom we work.

Each and every day, our collaboration makes a difference. The support that we provide together has never been more important as it is now. Thank you for joining us in this effort.

Sincerely,

Tom Viola Executive Director

2016 GRANT-MAKING “Where does all that money go?”

Support for The Actors Fund HIV/AIDS INITIATIVE

$2,000,000

PHYLLIS NEWMAN WOMEN’S HEALTH INITIATIVE

$ 810,000

AL HIRSCHFELD FREE HEALTH CLINIC

$ 600,000

ARTISTS HEALTH INSURANCE RESOURCE CENTER (AHIRC)

$ 400,000

ADDICTION AND RECOVERY SERVICES

$ 400,000

THE DANCERS’ RESOURCE

$ 310,000

ACTORS FUND WORK PROGRAM / CAREER CENTER

$ 300,000

STAGE MANAGERS’ PROJECT

$ 200,000

MISCELLANEOUS

Annual Gala, Memorial Donations, Benefit Support, etc.

$

82,550

FRIEDMAN CLINIC CAPITAL CAMPAIGN $ 500,000

One-time gift to move the Hirschfeld Clinic from the Friedman to 729 Seventh Ave.

THE ACTORS FUND

$ 5,602,550

National Grants FOOD SERVICE and MEAL DELIVERY PROGRAMS

118 Organizations in 37 States

$ 1,885,000

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED

AIDS SERVICE and ADVOCACY ORGANIZATIONS

45 Agencies

$

842,000

LOCAL AIDS SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS

299 Organizations in 50 States, Washington DC and Puerto Rico

Direct Services and Case Management, Supportive Housing Programs,

Emergency Financial Assistance, Harm Reduction Programs,

Quality of Life Services

$ 2,289,400

SUPPLEMENTAL/EMERGENCY GRANTS

$

591,578

THEATRE COMMUNITY SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS, RESEARCH GRANTS, SPECIAL ONE-TIME and SHARED SUPPORT

$

902,779

$

75,000

PHYSICIAN VOLUNTEERS FOR THE ARTS Broadway Flu Shot Initiative

NATIONAL GRANTS

$ 6,585,757

International Grants SOUTH AFRICA / THE LION KING

Grants to 24 AIDS Service Organizations ACTORS FUND of CANADA

INTERNATIONAL GRANTS

2016 BC/EFA GRANT-MAKING TOTAL

$

336,500

$

54,700

$ 391,200

$12,579,507

BROADWAY CARES/EQUITY FIGHTS AIDS

MISSION STATEMENT Approved by the BC/EFA Board of Trustees – May 27, 2010

• To mobilize the unique abilities within the entertainment industry to mitigate the suffering of individuals affected by HIV/AIDS; • To ensure direct support specifically through social services and programs of the Actors Fund to all individuals in the entertainment industry affected by critical health issues, including but not limited to HIV/AIDS; • To support organizations across the country which provide treatment or services for people specifically affected by HIV/AIDS and their families; • To promote and encourage public support for national and international programs and services which benefit people with HIV/AIDS;

TABLE OF

CONTENTS 3 Where Does All That Money Go? 5 Gypsy of the Year 8 The Actors Fund 11 Broadway Backwards 13 National Food Grants 16 Sharing Resources 17 Beyond the Footlights 18 Women’s March on Washington 20 Classical Action 21 Education Outreach 22 Dancers Responding to AIDS 23 Leadership Council 24 Angels Circle 27 Broadway Cares Online Store

• To increase public awareness and understanding of HIV/AIDS through the creation and dissemination of educational materials; • To support efforts by the entertainment industry to address other critical health issues or respond to an emergency, in each case as approved by the Board of Trustees; • To support efforts by the entertainment industry in other charitable or educational endeavors, in each case as approved by the Board of Trustees.

A HISTORY OF GRANT-MAKING

The Actors Fund

1987–1992 Equity Fights AIDS $ 1988–May 1992 Broadway Cares

BC/EFA Contributions 5/92–12/92 $ 1993 $ 1994 $ 1995 $ 1996 $ 1997 $ 1998 $ 1999 $ 2000 $ 2001 $ 2002 $ 2003 $ 2004 $ 2005 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2008 $ 2009 $ 2010 $ 2011 $ 2012 $ 2013 $ 2014 $ 2015 $ 2016 $ Total Support 1988–2016

National & Int’l Grants

Total

2,775,250 $ 1,067,000

$ 2,775,250 $ 1,067,000

634,000 1,654,000 1,758,000 1,791,000 2,010,000 2,247,500 2,471,000 2,700,000 2,955,336 2,829,500 2,732,000 3,022,500 3,360,500 3,516,500 3,517,500 3,671,500 4,302,000 3,400,000 4,160,000 4,014,500 4,625,000 4,300,000 4,603,000 5,175,500 5,602,550

$ 1,405,780 $ 2,838,119 $ 2,434,404 $ 2,498,916 $ 3,410,549 $ 3,589,700 $ 4,182,819 $ 5,739,841 $ 5,988,902 $ 6,068,265 $ 5,421,676 $ 6,138,469 $ 7,797,838 $ 7,986,298 $ 8,035,864 $ 8,824,046 $ 10,039,298 $ 7,892,489 $ 9,984,988 $ 9,320,200 $ 10,856,796 $ 10,518,706 $ 10,680,237 $ 12,023,620 $ 12,579,507

$ 771,780 $ 1,184,119 $ 676,404 $ 707,916 $ 1,400,549 $ 1,342,200 $ 1,711,819 $ 3,039,841 $ 3,033,566 $ 3,238,765 $ 2,689,679 $ 3,115,969 $ 4,437,338 $ 4,469,798 $ 4,518,364 $ 5,152,546 $ 5,737,298 $ 4,492,489 $ 5,824,988 $ 5,305,700 $ 6,231,796 $ 6,218,706 $ 6,077,237 $ 6,848,120 $ 6,976,957

$ 83,828,636 $ 96,257,944

BC/EFA GRANT-MAKING TOTAL 1988–2016

$180,099,577

GYPSY OF THE YEAR

l

Hope and Unity Resonate at Fundraising Celebration

B

roadway’s best spread messages of unity, hope and resilience through song, satire and dance December 5 and 6, at the 28th annual Gypsy of the Year competition.

Gypsy of the Year, which celebrated six weeks of fundraising by 55 Broadway, Off-Broadway and national touring companies, raised $4,492,636 for Broadway Cares. The grand total was announced after the second day of performances by Tony Award winners Cynthia Erivo and Jessie Mueller and Hamilton star Javier Muñoz. Erivo, Mueller and Muñoz also presented the awards to the top fundraisers and best performances across the two afternoons.

The company of Hamilton took top honors for best onstage presentation. In “America,” the cast mashed up the music and lyrics of Bob Marley and Lin-Manuel Miranda and the poetry of Langston Hughes into a call for peace and equality in our country. Javier Muñoz and Syndee Winters led the cast in the integration of song, word and dance.

The company of The Lion King was runner-up with a moving spoken-word piece giving voice to those marginalized by the

current political climate. The piece, written by cast member L. Steven Taylor and choreographed by Ray Mercer, featured four isolated actors and a dancer who expressed their words through movement.

This year’s edition of Gypsy of the Year opened with an energetic dance featuring the return of Broadway legends Baayork Lee, Donna McKechnie and Margo Sappington. The dynamic trio recreated their unforgettable “Turkey Lurkey Time,” which they originated in 1968’s Promises, Promises.

Based on the original choreography by Michael Bennett, the updated version was directed and choreographed by Al Blackstone and also featured Ward Billeisen, Ashley Blanchet, Karli Dinardo and Khori Petinaud.

The show concluded with a celebratory send off to long-running Broadway hit Jersey Boys, which closed January 15 after 11 record-breaking years. The performance, written, directed and staged by original cast member Peter Gregus, featured more than 60 past and then-present cast members. The top fundraising award brought the Broadway company’s all-time fundraising total to a remarkable $2,719,887.

Behind the Scenes

5

The cast of On Your Feet! gave Rent’s “Seasons of Love” a Spanish-language twist as they intertwined recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and defiantly stood up to bigotry in “This is What an American Looks Like.”

The cast of The Color Purple took the audience to church with a stirring rendition of The Reverend Paul Jones’ gospel classic “I Won’t Complain.”

Original Dreamgirls and current Wicked star Sheryl Lee Ralph shared her personal story of loss on Broadway during the early days of the HIV/AIDS epidemic through powerful renditions of Dreamgirls’ “Listen” and “Family.”

The high-flying talent of Cirque du Soleil’s Paramour presented a fast-paced, emotional dance number, “The Message,” which explored themes of police brutality and political unrest.

Adding a healthy dose of satire to the social activist undertones, the cast of Avenue Q presented a comedic ode to a certain

6

Behind the Scenes

orange-skinned politician called “Fuh Q,” sung to the tune of CeeLo Green’s pop hit with a similar name.

The young cast of School of Rock - The Musical parodied Hamilton’s opening number with an amped-up rock 'n’ roll version called “School of Rock, A Rock Musical.”

Fiddler on the Roof’s cast presented an amusing take on the future lives of the show’s characters in “Anatevka: Where Are They Now?,” delivering Fiddler versions of songs from Evita, Hello, Dolly!, The Sound of Music and Sweet Charity.

Two performances featured numbers from “Carols for a Cure,” the theatre community’s annual CD of holiday standards and original songs benefiting Broadway Cares. The cast of Waitress, including Jessie Mueller, performed Sara Bareilles’ “Love is Christmas.” Chicago’s Angel Reda performed “Holiday Melody,” written by cast member Brian O’Brien.

Gypsy of the Year also included a special number recognizing

the 17 national touring productions that fundraised in the fall.

The rhythmic number was directed and choreographed by Kellen Stancil. Representing Dancers Responding to AIDS, a program of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo performed a playfully parodied excerpt of Mikhail Fokine’s classic ballet The Dying Swan.

The inimitable Judith Light, a longtime friend and champion for Broadway Cares, led the audience in a moving moment of silence to remember lives lost to and affected by HIV/AIDS. Other special presenters included the cast of Falsettos - Stephanie J. Block, Christian Borle, Andrew Rannells, Anthony Rosenthal, Tracie Thoms and Brandon Uranowitz, Holiday Inn’s Lora Lee Gayer and Megan Sikora, and Cagney’s Robert Creighton.

Broadway favorite Seth Reudetsky returned as host The panel of judges who chose the best presentation award winners was introduced by comedy duo Nick Kroll and John Mulaney, stars of Oh, Hello on Broadway. This year’s judges were James Barbour, Denée Benton, Clifton Davis, Harvey Evans, Todrick Hall, Lisa Lampanelli, Lesli Margherita, Mary Beth Peil, Lucas Steele and auction winners Lee Perlman and Peg Wendlandt.

Gypsy of the Year was directed by Jason Trubitt with Matthew K. Lutz serving as production stage manager, leading a team of 11 accomplished stage managers. Ted Arthur was music supervisor.

Lighting design was by Joel Shier with sound by Marie Renee Foucher and Kurt Fischer.

Gypsy of the Year was sponsored by The New York Times and United Airlines. n

broadwaycares.org/gypsy2016

PHOTOS & VIDEO

FUNDRAISING AWARDS BROADWAY MUSICALS Top Fundraiser Jersey Boys ...................... $322,211 1st Runner-Up Hamilton............................ $293,186 2nd Runner-Up The Book of Mormon........ $202,844 3rd Runner-Up The Lion King.................... $168,361

BROADWAY PLAYS Top Fundraiser

Oh, Hello on Broadway.... $127,633

1st Runner-Up The Humans...................... $ 92,776

OFF-BROADWAY Top Fundraiser Cagney.............................. $ 28,215 1st Runner-Up Avenue Q........................... $ 24,323

NATIONAL TOURING SHOWS Top Fundraiser Wicked - Munchkinland .... $268,802 1st Runner-Up The Book of Mormon - Jumamosi........... $164,383 2nd Runner-Up Fun Home.......................... $147,065 3rd Runner-Up The Lion King – Gazelle .... $146,600

55 COMPANIES RAISED $4,492,636 Behind the Scenes

7

THE ACTORS FUND

New Friedman Health Center Provides Expanded Care

F

or actor and usher Laura Kaye, the need for affordable health care has been a primary concern this winter.

On the day of a recent East Coast snow storm, Kaye’s nose was broken when a ceiling panel fell on her, knocking her to the ground. While she does have insurance through her theatrical union, the coverage only applies to medical emergencies.

“I am covered by health insurance if I have to be hospitalized,” Kaye said. “But that’s all it is. So basic doctor’s appointments are not covered. The Actors Fund is a godsend because I wouldn’t be able to afford health care without it.”

After a trip to the emergency room for her broken nose, Kaye needed follow-up care and a referral for her recovery. She turned to The Actors Fund’s new Samuel J. Friedman Health Center for Performing Arts. Thanks to the generous donations of our supporters, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS provided $500,000 for the health center’s capital campaign and will continue with annual support of $800,000.

The Actors Fund has long been a resource for people like Kaye and all her colleagues in the performing arts. They can turn to the Fund to receive care in times of need, crisis or transition.

Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS continues to be the Fund’s single largest financial supporter. In 2016, Broadway Cares

8

Behind the Scenes

awarded $5.6 million to The Actors Fund, not only for the new health center but for long-established programs like the HIV/AIDS Initiative, the Phyllis Newman Women’s Health Initiative, the Artists Health Insurance Resource Center, Addiction and Recovery Services, The Dancers’ Resource, the Career Center, the Stage Managers’ Project and more.

“Since 1988, Broadway Cares has awarded The Actors Fund $84 million,” Executive Director Tom Viola said. “It began solely as grants to the HIV/AIDS Initiative, then expanded in 1996 with support for the Women’s Health Initiative. During the next 20

years our commitment has grown significantly to include these other programs and services."

“

e’re proud to help ensure that a safety W net of social services for everyone in the entertainment industry and performing arts remains responsive, efficient and steadfast. The Friedman Health Center is an integral new player in that safety net.”

The Friedman, which opened March 6 inside the Fund’s Times Square offices, offers a range of high-quality primary and specialty services. The new health center has expanded on the wellness services previously offered at the Al Hirschfeld Free Health Clinic. Operated in partnership with Mount Sinai Doctors, it’s the only health center in New York City solely focused on the needs of the entertainment and performing arts community.

“Providing access to quality, affordable health care is central to our mission,” said Joe Benincasa, CEO of The Actors Fund and a trustee for Broadway Cares. “The Friedman Health Center will offer our community access to Mount Sinai, one of the best health care systems anywhere, and provide a continuity of care for those who experience regular changes in health insurance coverage. This is a real win for our performing arts and entertainment community.”

The Friedman Health Center offers primary and specialty care, expedited referrals to physicians within the Mount Sinai system and extended hours, designed with the industry’s busy and often atypical schedules in mind. The health center accepts most insurance plans, including commercial insurances, Medicare and workers’ compensation. And because of the health center’s ties with Mount Sinai, patients will receive the best possible care from some of the city’s top doctors.

“I believe that everyone has a story, and that all patients play an active part in healing and the overall management of their condition,” said Dr. Ramon Pesigan, a primary care practitioner at Mount Sinai Health Services and one of the doctors at the Friedman Health Center. “Active listening and effective communication is vital, and I am dedicated to making my patients an integral part of their treatment.

Having had the privilege of training in a variety of practice settings, as well as having international experience, I place great importance on the role that other disciplines play in the patient’s well-being, from conventional choices, to a more integrative approach such as using natural remedies and modalities.”

Personalized health insurance counseling, guidance and enrollment support is available on-site through the Artists Health Insurance Resource Center. AHIRC, as the center is known, helps translate the often-complicated bureaucracy surrounding health insurance. With possible changes to the Affordable Care Act still lingering, the team at AHIRC is uniquely positioned to help the industry understand the current health care landscape, including its opportunities and implications.

Kaye was one of the first patients to take advantage of the new Friedman Health Center.

“They took me through the process so easily, so effortlessly,” she said. “I don’t have the money to see a bunch of doctors and they just made the process as easy as could be.”

“

I don’t know what I would do without the Friedman.”

In today’s tense political and social climate, basic necessities that many once took for granted are now at risk. One of the most vital of these is health care. For those in the performing arts community, access to affordable health care is crucial because consistent health care coverage often is not an option.

“I think every single person in the country is asking questions about their health insurance,” Kaye said. “I’m so grateful that I know that I have top notch doctors at the Friedman who will oversee my care and make sure that I’m taken care of.”

For people like Kaye, the health center’s arrival provides a new-found sense of security and comfort in times of crisis.

“Thank goodness for the Friedman,” Kaye said. “Thank goodness for The Actors Fund and thank goodness for Broadway Cares.” n

actorsfund.org

LEARN MORE

Behind the Scenes

9

All performing arts and entertainment professionals in need, crisis or transition are eligible for the vital social service programs available through The Actors Fund.

Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS is the largest single financial supporter of The Actors Fund, helping ensure health care, addiction and recovery services, emergency financial assistance, affordable housing, insurance counseling and senior care.

HIV/AIDS INITIATIVE

AL HIRSCHFELD FREE HEALTH CLINIC Ongoing support will now be provided to the Samuel J. Friedman Health Center for the Performing Arts.

The experienced social workers of the HIV/AIDS Initiative help men and women in the industry create confidential, holistic support systems that address emotional, medical and financial needs over the long term.

The Al Hirschfeld Free Health Clinic provided primary and specialty urgent care, vaccinations, physical exams, blood testing, mammograms and more.

2016 grant: $2,000,000 | Since 1988: $48,750,000

2016 grant: $600,000 | Since 2004: $9,011,000

PHYLLIS NEWMAN WOMEN'S HEALTH INITIATIVE

ARTISTS HEALTH INSURANCE RESOURCE CENTER

The Phyllis Newman Women’s Health Initiative provides a safety net for women who are coping with critical health concerns. The initiative is a place where women artists get help and advice without fear and stigma.

The Artists Health Insurance Resource Center, known as AHIRC, works with unions and local performing arts organizations to connect entertainment industry workers to health insurance and the Affordable Care Act.

2016 grant: $810,000 | Since 1996: $9,400,000

2016 grant: $400,000 | Since 2014: $1,300,000

ADDICTION AND RECOVERY SERVICES

THE DANCERS' RESOURCE

Addiction and Recovery Services services help entertainment professionals and their families cope with situations of drug and alcohol abuse or addiction. The program provides intensive case management to address addiction and its causes

The Dancers’ Resource addresses the unique challenges dancers face due to the physically demanding nature of their work, coupled with the significant financial challenges of earning a living in dance.

2016 grant: $400,000 | Since 2015: $850,000

2016 grant: $310,000 | Since 2007: $2,035,000

THE CAREER CENTER

THE STAGE MANAGERS' PROJECT

The Career Center, formerly known as the Actors Fund Work Program, assists those in the entertainment community identify and find meaningful sideline employment or a new career.

The Stage Managers’ Project is a reliable directory of doctors, specialists and other health care providers in 28 cities for Broadway, Off-Broadway and national touring productions.

2016 grant: $300,000 | Since 1998: $4,285,000

2016 grant: $200,000 | Since 2005: $596,000

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Behind the Scenes

LEARN MORE

BROADWAY BACKWARDS

Annual LGBT Celebration Breaks Records, Embraces Solidarity

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quality, solidarity and warmth filled the Al Hirschfeld Theatre on March 13, when some of the biggest stars on Broadway proved gender doesn’t matter, but love does as they explored and embraced the great songs of musical theatre at the 12th annual Broadway Backwards.

This year’s sold-out celebration, where men sing songs intended for women and vice versa without changing pronouns, shattered fundraising records, bringing in an impressive $522,870 to benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center in New York CIty. The show was produced by Broadway Cares.

Four-time Grammy nominee and pop icon Josh Groban, currently starring on Broadway in Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812, closed the first act with a stirring version of “Someone Else’s Story” from Chess.

The audience was invited to leave politics and today’s troubles behind for the evening, and instead celebrate the strength of the theatrical and LGBT communities. “Tomorrow we fight,” White told the audience. “But tonight, we sing, we dance.”

The evening was hosted by Tony Award winner and longtime Broadway Cares friend Julie White, who brought her signature sass and wit to the stage. The evening featured 19 comedic, poignant and heart-wrenching numbers, backed by a live, 12-piece orchestra on the Hirschfeld stage, home to the Tony Award-winning Kinky Boots.

Tony winner Cynthia Erivo brought the house down with a gospel-infused rendition of “Make Them Year You” from Ragtime. Her powerful, show-stopping vocals, backed by the Broadway Backwards ensemble, had the audience on its feet cheering for more in a fitting finale to this year’s show.

Behind the Scenes

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The evening of empowerment kicked off with a high-spirited, tap-happy rendition of “Tap Your Troubles Away” from Mack & Mabel, led by Clyde Alves and the equally rhythmic, rainbow-wearing Backwards ensemble.

Andrew Keenan-Bolger and Jay Armstrong Johnson came together for a giddy, delightful version of “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” from The Sound of Music. The pair gleefully gallivanted across the stage in a charmingly updated romp through the classic.

While waiting in an audition room, Sierra Boggess became entranced by Aladdin’s Kathryn Terza as she warmed up.

Inspired, Boggess sang “Kiss the Girl” from The Little Mermaid, in which Boggess originated the lead role.

Bobby Conte Thornton entered an old-school red carpet movie premiere with vintage swagger to perform a sultry rendition of “Buddie Beware” from Anything Goes, inspired by the iconic water ballets of the 1940s. The song featured a guest appearance from sixtime Emmy Award winner and comedy writer Bruce Vilanch.

When Ariana DeBose and Megan Sikora are stood up at prom, the pair flirt through a playful version of “It’s De-Lovely” from Anything Goes. The couple ended the song with a slow dance and sweet first kiss.

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Behind the Scenes

Eric Petersen delivered a hilariously boisterous rendition of “Shy” from Once Upon a Mattress. Petersen’s over-the-stop slapstick and lovable goofiness left the audience in stitches.

The evening featured unforgettable solos from Len Cariou, Carolee Carmello, Santino Fontana, John Glover, Cady Huffman, Levi Kreis, Andrew Rannells, Elizabeth Stanley and Kathleen Turner. The event also included a wonderful duet from Lora Lee Gayer and Rachel York and a terrific trio from Michael Longoria, Dominic Nolfi and Daniel Reichard.

Broadway Backwards creator Robert Bartley wrote and directed this year’s show, with choreography by Bartley, Penny Ayn Maas, Christopher Rice and Adam Roberts. Mary-Mitchell Campbell served as music supervisor and Laura Bergquist was music director. The creative team included lighting designer Carolyn Wong, costume designers Jess Gersz and Vanessa Leuck and sound designer Matthew Kraus.

Broadway Backwards was sponsored by A+E Networks, Facebook, HBO, The New York Times, United Airlines, New York Marriott Marquis, Mercer, O’Melveny, Comcast NBCUniversal, DIRECTV, Frankfurt Kurnit Klein & Selz, Get Services, Martian Entertainment and Olmstead Properties. n

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PHOTOS & VIDEO

NATIONAL FOOD GRANTS

Providing Nutritious Meals to Those Who Need Them Most

T

hey are teenagers in Florida searching for a healthy meal and low-income families in southern California needing basic groceries. They are the stigmatized in Alabama simply wanting access to social services and refugees who’ve settled in Maine seeking a new start.

From coast to coast, they are men and women facing uncertain futures. They’re turning to social service agencies for help managing their HIV diagnosis, feeding their families and taking the challenge-laden path from being marginalized to being empowered to care for themselves.

AIDS Services Foundation Orange County provides groceries, vitamins and nutritional supplements for low-income individuals with HIV. For 83 percent of those served, half of the food they receive every month comes from the program.

In addition to providing meals, the program includes ongoing education and referrals to other nutrition resources.

The program is more important than ever. The percentage of people in Orange County diagnosed and living with HIV/AIDS rose 66 percent over the past decade. To reach these at-risk individuals, AIDS Services Foundation Orange County

Every January, thanks to the generosity of donors and supporters, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS helps them move down that path with grants to food pantries, congregate meal services and meal delivery programs. This year, a record $1,926,500 was awarded to 117 organizations in 37 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico.

An essential part of Broadway Cares’ mission is to help provide nutritious meals to the most vulnerable among us, including their families. For those receiving the benefits of these grants, a healthy meal can be the difference between life and death.

Nutritious, balanced meals are crucial to the effectiveness of any medical treatment plan and getting on a road to recovery.

In southern California, the nutrition services program at

Behind the Scenes

13

assists individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty line of $11,880 earned per year. Their low-income or fixed-income status in this affluent locale make it virtually impossible to afford housing and other basic needs, including the nutritious food they need to optimize their health.

Sharon, a longtime client of the organization, would not be where she is today without the help of AIDS Services Foundation.

“

I have been a client since 1999 and they were like my family when I was left alone to deal with so many health issues,” Sharon said. “They were my family during this painful journey in my life. After being alone for so long and without help, getting sicker and sicker every year, it was so wonderful to have this amazing resource.”

Broadway Cares’ $10,000 grant this year to AIDS Service Foundation Orange County helps fund a vital lifeline for these at-risk individuals.

On the opposite side of the country, the charming seaside city of Portland, Maine, is known to many as a summer getaway and the cultural epicenter of the region. It’s also home to growing refugee resettlement community seeking a safe haven.

These individuals often struggle with receiving proper health care, a situation further exacerbated when the person is living with HIV/AIDS. Because Maine state policies deem refugees and asylum seekers ineligible for nutrition programs, those living with HIV/AIDS are not receiving adequate nutritional support.

The Frannie Peabody Center, which provides services to more than half of Maine’s HIV-positive residents, serves more than 100 immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers with HIV/AIDS from Burundi, Somalia, Congo, Vietnam and Cameroon, among others. Recognizing the unique needs of these refugees, the organization offers a food program which enables clients

14

Behind the Scenes

to purchase the food of their choosing at the grocery store.

The annual $10,000 grant from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS covers two-thirds of the organization’s overall food program budget.

“The emotional impact of living a life with the expectation of an early death takes a significant toll,” Executive Director Megan Hannon said. "The stigma of HIV is very real, even after years of progress. Stories of the survival and resilience of older adults living with HIV are all around us, but seldom told, at least outside of family and close friends. We’re working to reduce that stigma.”

For many areas and groups at high risk, the annual grants from Broadway Cares are what keep the doors open for crucial organizations. In northern Florida’s Duval County, there was a 58 percent increase in new HIV cases in 2016 over 2015. The rate of AIDS diagnoses among Floridian youth ages 13-19 was

almost double the national rate. In reaction to these startling numbers, JASMYN Inc. in Jacksonville provides full-service case management to support the growing number of young people living with HIV/AIDS. Among the services provided, JASMYN offers nutritious meals through the organization’s food pantry.

For young people like Dante, a client of the organization, acceptance and access to resources is invaluable. “What I like most about JASMYN is just the fact we can come to a safe space,” he said. “It’s a place where we can be who we truly are and be around friends just as we are and hang with staff that love us.”

For organizations like JASMYN, every dollar truly does make a difference. Support from Broadway Cares in 2016 more than doubled JASMYN’s ability to serve the community. Food pantry visits increased from 350 in 2015 to 778 last year. Broadway Cares awarded a $10,000 grant to JASMYN in January to continue growing its program.

Some 360 miles away in Montgomery, AL, HIV-positive residents face intense discrimination in addition to extreme poverty and disease prevalence. Montgomery faces one of the most dire situations in Alabama, with 1.5 in every 200 residents living with the disease, the highest rate in the state.

Medical AIDS Outreach in Montgomery strives to provide a safe haven to those with HIV/AIDS in this stigma-stricken environment. Offering a wealth of programs, including medical care, social services and mental health counseling, the food pantry program is one of the organization’s most successful and beneficial initiatives. To spread its reach beyond Montgomery and into more remote areas, Medical AIDS Outreach is opening an office in rural Dothan, AL. With Broadway Cares’ $15,000 grant, the organization will be able to expand its food pantry programs into the southern portion of the state.

In Washington, D.C., Food & Friends, a longtime grantee of Broadway Cares founded at the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, expanded its mission to also meet the growing needs of people living with cancer. For Connie, it helped saved her life.

“I was living on the edge until Food & Friends came along,” she said. “I couldn’t afford to buy food. Your self-esteem is low. You are living with uncertainty about the future."

“

good meal is not only a boost to A your confidence, but a comfort like nothing else.”

Broadway Cares’ food grants would not be possible without tireless commitment and achievement from the men and women onstage, backstage and behind the scenes at Broadway, Off-Broadway and national touring productions, in addition to countless Broadway Cares supporters.

Broadway Cares’ grants committee consists of members of the theatre community who champion the fundraising efforts at their shows. Twenty actors and stage managers came together in the Broadway Cares office to review January’s grant applications.

"These food service grants from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS will reach hundreds of thousands of men, women and children across the country facing serious challenges living with HIV/AIDS and other debilitating illness,” Executive Director Tom Viola said. “They struggle with diminished community resources, personal crises and economic uncertainty. And they are assisted by agencies, large and small, in city, suburban and rural areas that face the anticipation of devastating reductions in federal support for social services in these uncertain political times. The extraordinary generosity of spirit, leadership and kindness that all of our supporters - those working in the theatres and attending in the audiences - are making a difference every day.”

Two additional grant rounds will occur this spring provided support to nationally recognized service and public policy programs, emergency assistance programs, direct services, substance abuse and harm reduction services, and quality of life programs.

Since 1988, more than $98 million has been awarded by Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS through the National Grants Program. n

broadwaycares.org/grantsbystate

SEARCH GRANTS

Behind the Scenes

15

SHARING RESOURCES

Sharing Broadway’s Generosity with South Africa

T

he incidence of HIV/AIDS in South Africa remains among the highest in the world as 7 million people live with the disease. It’s a reality that continues to hit close to the heart for many in the cast of Disney’s hit musical The Lion King, natives of South Africa who’ve seen the epidemic’s toll first-hand in their hometowns and villages.

In January, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS awarded $170,000 to 18 service providers across South Africa. Since 1998, Broadway Cares has shared more than $4.4 million to 70 AIDS organizations in the country in honor of and identified by the South African actors in the Broadway and national touring companies of The Lion King.

South African young women, in particular, are experiencing startlingly high infection rates, due to poverty, violence and lack of safe-sex education.

Looking to help bridge the gap between police and disadvantaged youth in New York City, the cast of the Tony Award-winning musical The Color Purple partnered with the Police Athletic League.

Offering after-school and college readiness programs, summer camps and youth employment opportunities, the Police Athletic League supports and inspires New York City youth to realize their full potential. In honor of the commitment by The Color Purple’s cast members, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS proudly shared $20,000 from the show’s fall fundraising efforts with the Police Athletic League.

16

Behind the Scenes

Bumbanani Creche, a nonprofit based in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, that receives a yearly grant from Broadway Cares, works to break the cycle. Bumbanani Creche employs disadvantaged women to create handmade goods for worldwide markets and offers education and prevention tactics against HIV/AIDS. The women are empowered to take control of their health and futures. This year, the organization received a $10,000 grant.

Other South African service providers receiving grants from Broadway Cares support a wide scope of people in need, ranging from HIV-positive individuals in small, rural villages to homeless children in urban areas. From Durban, Johannesburg and Pretoria to Cape Town, Tongatt and Umthwalume, Broadway Cares is proud to share the successful fundraising by the casts of The Lion King with those in South Africa who so urgently need a helping hand. n

Labyrinth Theater Company’s acclaimed production of Jordan Seavey’s Homos, or Everyone in America tackled the subject of hate crimes, an increasingly timely issue with the recent spike in hate and harassment crimes being reported nationwide. In support of the show’s message and in honor of the unwavering dedication of its cast and crew, Broadway Cares made a $5,000 grant to the New York City Anti-Violence Project. The Anti-Violence Project empowers LGBTQ and HIV-affected communities and allies to end violence through organizing and education, and supports survivors through counseling and advocacy.

BEYOND THE FOOTLIGHTS

Christmas Eve’s Holiday Hunkfest Makes Season Merrier

T

he incomparably endearing Ann Harada and 12 of Broadway’s leading men delighted a sold-out audience with hilarious and heartwarming holiday hits at the 2016 edition of Christmas Eve’s Holiday Hunkfest.

Reprising her celebrated role as Avenue Q’s original adorably inappropriate Christmas Eve, Harada asked Santa to grant her one wish: to sing alongside the hunkiest men on Broadway.

To Harada’s delight, Broadway’s hottest heartthrobs arrived to perform classic show tunes and beloved holiday standards, with a naughty and nice twist.

The show featured numbers ranging from romantic to riotous, from festive to farcical. Harada and her bevy of beaus performed hits from Broadway musicals including Ain’t Misbehavin’, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Hamilton, Mamma Mia!, Miss Saigon, On the Town, The Pajama Game,

The Phantom of the Opera, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Sunday in the Park with George and Victor/Victoria.

The studly stars who joined Harada in this evening of holiday hijinks were Corey Cott, Colin Cunliffe, Aaron C. Finley, Santino Fontana, Jordan Gelber, James Monroe Iglehart, Devin Ilaw, Jay Armstrong Johnson, Donald Jones Jr., Michael Mindlin, Ryan Silverman, Howie Michael Smith and Bobby Conte Thornton.

Harada closed the evening with a stirring rendition of the classic “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” She was then joined by the entire bevy of beaus to belt “All I Want for Christmas is You.” Christmas Eve’s Holiday Hunkfest was performed December 12 at New York City’s Howl at the Moon. It was directed by Alan Muraoka with music direction by Gary Adler. n

Theatre Enthusiasts Immerse Themselves in BroadwayCon

S

chuyler sister lookalikes, costumed cats and Wicked witches packed the Javits Center in New York City for the second annual BroadwayCon. Welcoming 5,000 passionate theatre lovers per day January 27-29, BroadwayCon again generously shared a portion of proceeds with Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

Broadway Cares and affiliate organizations Broadway Green Alliance and R.Evolución Latina were among dozens of booths in the Marketplace, which featured unique items and experiences to BroadwayCon attendees. n

Broadway buffs spent three days meeting their favorite stars, attending informative panels, participating in theatrical workshops and singing along to show tunes with their fellow fervent fans. Some of the most popular events of the weekend included a Dear Evan Hansen panel with the entire cast, a Hamilton panel featuring a surprise Skype session with LinManuel Miranda, a preview of the spring’s most buzzed-about shows and autograph sessions with Jeremy Jordan, Kelli O’Hara and Chita Rivera, among many other stars.

Behind the Scenes

17

WOMEN'S MARCH ON WASHINGTON

Broadway Cares Staff, Volunteers Join Call for Equality, Justice

Y

vonne Ghareeb and Angelica Franklin stepped off the bus in Washington, D.C., and stepped into history.

The two women, two generations apart yet both rooted in the extended family that is Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, joined a busload of Broadway Cares staff members and friends - 41 women strong - for January’s historic Women’s March on Washington. Ghareeb, Franklin and their comrades-in-arms blended into a sea of passionate activists who descended on our national’s capital for one of the largest solidarity rallies ever.

“The minute we arrived in D.C. it was like we were in an alternate universe,” said Franklin, who’s a been a junior designer at Broadway Cares since 2014.

18

“

I have never seen so many people in one place. But somehow, I didn’t feel afraid. There was so much positivity, love and solidarity going around. I felt safe and united. As we took over the streets around the capitol, we laughed, chanted, screamed, cried and fought together as if we all knew each other forever.”

Behind the Scenes

Women’s health issues have long been integral to the mission of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Women account for 19 percent of new HIV diagnoses every year and Broadway Cares’ annual grants to organizations across the country support a variety of services for women nationwide, including health care, food pantries and meal service programs, support in response to domestic violence, care for dependent children and emergency assistance. Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS also provided the seed funding 21 years ago for the Phyllis Newman’s Women’s Health Initiative of The Actors Fund. Since then, Broadway Cares has provided $9.4 million to that initiative.

For Ghareeb, the March on Washington was just another step in a long history of activism. Ghareeb retired from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS in 2015 after 25 years of dedicated service.

“In 1984, my first friend died of AIDS,” Ghareeb said. “He died about three months after he got sick. I did whatever research I could, trying to figure out how I could help. Raising money seemed like something I could do, not even knowing what result it could bring. As soon as there was something to volunteer for, I did, and that’s how I ended up working with Broadway Cares and Equity Fights AIDS, back when they were two separate organizations.”

For Ghareeb, the decision to climb aboard the Broadway Cares bus to the Women’s March on Washington was easy because of her unwavering belief in equal rights for all.

“It was important for me to be part of what was initially a women’s movement and turned out to be so much more than that,” Ghareeb said.

“

I wanted to stand with my fellow humans to show we want the rights we fought so hard for. The fight isn’t over - the fight against AIDS, the fight for the rights of humans and the respect for mankind to live as they choose.”

Unofficial estimates put attendance at more than 500,000 people. The ocean of pink hats and protest signs moved through the streets of Washington and across the National Mall as a united front, chanting in favor of gender equality, immigration reform, LGBTQ rights and other progressive ideals.

Those marching for Broadway Cares included employees, volunteers and friends in the Broadway community connected by the organization and their desire to make a difference.

“Initially, I was on the fence about attending because I saw many differing points of view from my peers and other activists about the march, and if it was truly a march for women of color like me,” Franklin said. “But as the day got closer, I got more excited and interested in going. I saw women of all races and backgrounds getting ready to go resist.”

Once the bus pulled into Washington, any hesitation Franklin had about participating in her first protest disappeared as she proudly marched in harmony alongside almost 500,000 new friends representing a broad, inclusive range of races, orientations and backgrounds.

Empowered by the legacy established by Broadway Cares veterans like Ghareeb and the strong, influential women she met at the protest and rally, Franklin is eager to continue down the path of activism and resistance.

“I will continue to fight for what I believe in and find more ways to really make a difference,” Franklin said. “Activism has many voices. Find yours and let it be heard.” n

womensmarch.com

LEARN MORE

Behind the Scenes

19

CLASSICAL ACTION

Nina Stemme, Emmanuel Ceysson Dazzle at Michael Palm Series

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wo of the world’s greatest classical music talents renowned harpist Emmanuel Ceysson and acclaimed soprano Nina Stemme - came together to share their talents in an intimate TriBeCa loft on October 19 as part of Classical Action’s celebrated Michael Palm Series.

Ceysson, who earned the coveted title of principal harpist of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra in 2015, opened the program with a spellbinding rendition of Albert Zabel’s “A Fantasy on Gounod’s Faust,” followed by a dazzling performance of one of his own compositions, “Paraphrase on Bizet’s Carmen.” Audiences were entranced by his swift, effortless fingers and sultry style.

After a brief intermission he was joined by Stemme, considered one of the finest Wagnerian sopranos in history. To the delight

of the audience, she performed one of Wagner’s most iconic works, his 22-minute “Wesendonck Lieder,” arranged for harp and voice by Ceysson. The audience was enthralled and gave the duo a prolonged standing ovation.

To support Classical Action, the artists took time out from their performance schedule for the Metropolitan Opera’s Tristan und Isolde, where Stemme performed the lead role of Isolde and Ceysson was in the orchestra.

Simon Yates and Kevin Roon once again graciously opened their remarkable home for the concert. The sole underwriter of the series is the Michael Palm Foundation, with additional sponsorship from United Airlines. n

Up Our Alley Fundraisers Score for Classical Action More than 250 participants spent six weeks raising money by encouraging friends, family and co-workers to donate to Up Our Alley. The bowlers gathered November 14 and 15 to celebrate their fundraising prowess through strikes, spares and a few gutter balls at New York City’s Bowlmor Chelsea Piers.

Among the November 14 participants, the team from Orchestra of St. Luke’s raised the most money, led by Charles Hamlen, the day’s top fundraiser whose individual total topped $28,950.

F

riendly competition filled the air this fall when bowling lanes were lined by performing arts, financial, media and pharmaceutical professionals at the 17th annual edition of Up Our Alley. These benevolent bowlers raised a striking $149,017 for Classical Action, a program of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

20

Behind the Scenes

Among the November 15 participants, the most money raised by a team was $23,855 by Morgan Stanley. The top individual fundraiser was Ed Wastell with $5,740.

Since 1999, the 17 editions of Up Our Alley have raised nearly $2.1 million. n

classicalaction.org

PHOTOS

s

EDUCATION OUTREACH

Inspiring Youth Activism Through Engaging Workshops

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ifty students, from high schools and colleges around the country, stood in a circle introducing themselves to one another. They’re at a workshop called “Create the Change,” learning how they, as theatre artists, can make a difference in the world around them. This is the next generation of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. The workshop, offered at high school and college theatre conferences, was designed to empower students to create change through the arts. Students begin by learning to recognize a need within their community, then to take a stand and ultimately utilize their talents to create a theatre piece that inspires an audience to join them on their mission.

To inspire the students to include Broadway Cares as part of their personal mission, students must first be informed about and invested in the cause. Students are presented with statements such as “’I believe that theatre can change people’s lives” and “HIV is not really a problem for the younger generation.”

“The pieces they develop are thoughtful, collaborative, intentional,” said Michael Carmine Di Bianco, Broadway Cares’ outreach associate. “Just when we think we’ve seen it all here in New York, a 17-year-old in Wisconsin comes up with a piece that featured the sound of beating hearts, symbolic of universal humanity and empathy, drowning out the noise of the opposition. It makes you realize how important it is to continue passing this tradition on to the next generation. Not just for them, but for the sake of seeing our cause through new eyes.”

The workshop, which was created in 2016 by Mitchel, Di Bianco and Abby Gerdts, an arts education consultant, continues to inspire a new generation to become informed about HIV/AIDS and to support Broadway Cares on their campuses. With almost 30 years of being at the forefront of the fight against HIV/AIDS and supporting countless individuals living with the disease, Broadway Cares’ formula for activism through the arts serves as the perfect template for the next generation to carry on the fight. n

The students then, based on where they stand in the room, place themselves on a barometer from agree to disagree. “I often think about the millions of people around the world living with HIV/AIDS” is always the last statement presented to students.

“This is almost always an ‘a-ha moment’ for them,” said Sarah Mitchel, Broadway Cares’ director of education and outreach.

“Up to this point, it has been pretty easy for them to say, ‘I strongly agree that people are still stigmatized for their HIV status,’ or, ‘No, I don’t really agree that HIV could never affect someone I love.’ But then they have to come to terms with the fact that most of us can’t say we often think about the millions of people who are still living with this disease today.”

Once students feel connected to the cause, it’s time to put their creativity to work. In groups, with packets filled with recent statistics, poems, photographs and a giant red ribbon, students begin to develop an artistic piece to inspire audiences.

Behind the Scenes

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DANCERS RESPONDING TO AIDS

Creating a Cultural Exchange for Cuban and American Artists

C

uba has long served as fertile ground for dance, art and creative expression. Internationally renowned ballet dancer Carlos Acosta is living proof.

Acosta grew up as the 11th child of an impoverished family in one of Havana’s poorest districts. Yet his energy and drive to succeed led him to train at the National Ballet School of Cuba and ultimately perform around the world in the Houston Ballet and The Royal Ballet as one of the most-acclaimed dancers of his generation. Last year, he returned to Havana to start his own dance company, opening doors and providing valuable opportunities for driven young artists starting out as he did.

When Hurlin and Viola landed in Havana in December, they knew they could help break new ground for arts organizations.

They also recognized the need to support not only Cuban artists but the marginalized LGBT and HIV/AIDS communities.

This summer, his Acosta Danza will perform a duet at Fire Island Dance Festival, the annual summer cultural event presented by and benefiting Dancers Responding to AIDS, a program of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

Hurlin and Viola met with Havana nonprofits to share their experiences in fundraising. They also met with officials at the Cuban National Center for Sexual Education, known by its acronym in Spanish, CENESEX. The center advocates for tolerance toward LGBT and transgender Cubans, and provides much-needed education about HIV/AIDS and safe sex.

Acosta Danza’s journey to Fire Island started in December when DRA Founding Director Denise Roberts Hurlin and Broadway Cares Executive Director Tom Viola traveled to Cuba. They were invited by longtime DRA supporter Ben Rodriguez-Cubeñas and the Cuban Artists Fund to share their fundraising expertise with local nonprofits and experience for themselves Havana’s professional dance scene.

“Changing mentality is one of the most difficult things to do,” said Mariela Castro Espín, the internationally acclaimed director of CENESEX and daughter of Cuban president Raúl Castro. “Even though we’ve made substantial political and legislative strides, we’re still bound by aspects of roles defined long ago. We have to take a hard look at these things or else we’ll keep passing them down from generation to generation.”

“It’s a tremendously vibrant culture,” Hurlin said. “The music and dance are even more beautiful when you get to see them first-hand. We immediately saw possibilities to extend the cultural exchange we’ve been developing.”

CENESEX acts as a refuge for Cubans experiencing transphobia, homophobia and domestic violence. “Broadway Cares and Dancers Responding to AIDS are proud to offer our support to CENESEX’s spring “Jornada Cubana Contra La Homofobia,” essentially their pride festival, and the work they do year-round,” Viola said. “By sharing our expertise and experiences, and offering performing artists a venue to share their craft in the US, we hope to enrich countless lives both in Cuba and the United States.” n

For years, it was challenging for American and Cubanbased artists to collaborate due to the political tensions and restrictions between the two countries. Over the past two years, as then-President Obama reestablished diplomatic relations and loosened travel and economic policies, new cultural opportunities began to blossom.

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At last summer’s Fire Island Dance Festival, DRA presented Cuba’s Ballet Contemporáneo de Camagüey, which was the company’s first performance in the United States. Dancers Armando Gomez Brydson and Jesus Arias Pagues performed Pedro Ruiz’s Lasting Embrace.

Behind the Scenes

cenesex.org

LEARN MORE

LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

Volunteers Tap Personal Networks to Recruit New Donors

I

t’s been said that it takes a village to raise a child. The same could be said about the fundraising that Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS does each year. It’s truly a community-wide effort, from actors making appeals from the stages of Broadway or volunteers arriving in Times Square at dawn to set up the Broadway Flea Market & Grand Auction to donors joining host committees to sell tickets for Broadway Backwards and Fire Island Dance Festival. One special group of volunteers is the Broadway Cares Leadership Council.

each June. The annual event is the second hottest ticket in town on Tony night, a must-have for any theatre fan not attending the awards.

Leadership Council members are dedicated to helping expand the donor networks of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, with a focus on growing our major giving society, the Angels Circle. Since its inception in 2012, the Council has raised nearly $1.5 million and recruited dozens of new supporters.

Broadway producer Leslie Mayer is passionate about theatre and joining the Leadership Council was the perfect way to align her charitable and professional interests. “The Leadership Council provides a way for me to personally give back to the entertainment community, while meeting new colleagues and friends that I expect will be in my life forever,” she said.

While the Leadership Council works year-round to support Broadway Cares, they have two signature fundraising events.

Each fall, the Council hosts a special event at a unique, exclusive location where their friends and colleagues learn about Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and are invited to join the Angels Circle. Last year’s event was hosted by the corporate offices of Facebook New York and raised more than $100,000.

Kenneth Cooke, a member of the Leadership Council, was first introduced to Broadway Cares at the 2013 event.

The past year has been an exciting time for the Leadership Council with the addition of 10 new members. They are from a variety of fields – media, public relations, marketing, accounting, finance, theatre producing and more – but they are all united behind Broadway Cares’ mission.

Led by Leadership Council Co-chairs Rob O’Neill and Bob Tuschman, members include Cristina Carlson, Cooke, Drew Desky, Ken Fakler, Elliot Fishman, Marsi Gardiner, Suzanne Gilad, Jen Hatch, Dawn Landino, Clif Mathews, Mayer, Peter McKown, Bill Megevick, Calvin Mitchell, Elizabeth Murray, Jonathan Rebell, Matt Tumminello and David Wackman. n

“Having lost my best friend to AIDS in 1996, I have always been dedicated to raising awareness about HIV,” Cooke said. “I learned about the lifesaving medications, health care, nutritious meals and other services that Broadway Cares helps provide to those impacted by HIV/AIDS. This seemed like a perfect way for me to step up my personal commitment. I joined that evening and have been active ever since.”

The Leadership Council also hosts Tony Awards at Feinstein’s/54 Below, a viewing party the night of the Tonys Behind the Scenes

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ANGELS CIRCLE 2016-2017 THE ANGELS CIRCLE

Providing a Sustainable Foundation The following are members of the Angels Circle as of March 29, 2017. Names in bold indicate Broadway Cares Archangels, donors who increased their gift by 25 percent or more over the previous year. Members of the Angels Circle include individuals, organizations, family foundations and corporations. Contributions are unrestricted and not related to event or merchandise purchases.

On behalf of our volunteers, staff, Board of Trustees and the many men, women and children with HIV/AIDS and other lifethreatening illnesses who count on Broadway Cares for assistance, we salute these donors.

In appreciation of an annual contribution of $1,000 or more, Angels receive VIP status at some of Broadway Cares’ most high-profile events, including Gypsy of the Year and the Easter Bonnet Competition, as well as a host of other exciting benefits.

There are many ways to become a member of the Angels Circle. You can join as an individual, a couple, a family or even as part of a group of friends, co-workers, fan club or sports league. You can charge your membership on a monthly or quarterly basis. In addition, if your employer matches charitable contributions, a gift of $500 or more can qualify you for membership at the $1,000 level.

For more information about the benefits of the Angels Circle, please contact John Halpin, major gifts officer, at halpin@broadwaycares.org or 212.840.0770, ext. 275.

Executive Producer gifts of $100,000 and above The Fred Ebb Foundation

Producer

gifts from $50,000 to $99,999 Dwight H. Curry Harriett D. Kittner Foundation The Shubert Organization Brian S. Snyder Lizzie & Jonathan M. Tisch

Director

gifts from $25,000 to $49,999

Laura M. Boedeker Jules Fisher & Graciela Daniele Myrna & Freddie Gershon remember Richard Salfas, Marvin Hamlisch, Peter Allen, Tom Eyen, Arthur Laurents, Marty Richards and Lou Reed H. van Ameringen Foundation The Palette Fund Thomas Schumacher & Matthew White Hollis Stern The Ted Snowdon Foundation

House Seat

gifts from $10,000 to $24,999 Sam Altman in memory of Murray Schapiro and Shirley Herz and Jerry Tischman Paul Boskind Scott Brady & Nancy Karpf City National Bank William W. Donnell Mary D. Fisher George & Irina Schaeffer Foundation John W. Holloway James C. Hormel & Michael P. Nguyen Jerry & Terri Kohl Deirde & Mark LeMire

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Behind the Scenes

William J. Levy Florence Rowe Libin & Paul Libin Mary Lea Johnson Richards 1997 Charitable Trust in memory of Mary Lea Johnson Richards & Martin Richards William Megevick Jane Morison Stanley Newman & Dr. Brian Rosenthal Newman’s Own Foundation NJ Center for Pain & Rehabilitation LLC, Jose Rojas Jr. Reel Time Video Production: Jonathan Frank and Alex Pearlman Ann Reinking The Richmond/Ermet Aid Foundation, San Francisco Mickey Rolfe & Bruce Tracy Amy Sherman-Palladino Happy Shipley in memory of Lorna Kelly Eileen T. Stapleton Sweet Hospitality Group Theatrical Stage Employees Local One/IATSE Robert Tuschman John Voege & Geoffrey Paul The Waldman Foundation Diane M. & Kevin Wilshere Anonymous

Orchestra Seat

gifts from $5,000 to $9,999

Actors’ Equity Foundation James D. Akins Jr. Rich Aronstein in memory of Florence Henderson ATPAM - Association of Theatrical Press Agents & Managers The Barrington Foundation Inc. Ben & Jerry’s Times Square Andrew Berdon* The Carl Jacobs Foundation Samantha & Drew Cohen in memory of Richard Salfas The Column Awards Scott Dainton

Deborah Dakin The Dorothy Strelsin Foundation Frank Duff & John Okuloski William D. Eichman & Michael C. Yount Ken Fakler The Fosdick Fund Kenneth R. Fulton Dan Goggin I. Steven Goldstein & William Popeleski Jr. Jill & Marty Handelsman Alan Hassell* in loving memory of H. Thomas Axt Indianapolis Motor Speedway in memory of Florence Henderson The Jackman Family Foundation The Joe & Hellen Darion Foundation, Inc. George E. Jordan in memory of Michel G. Delhaise Karma Foundation Matt Kupchin Larry L. Luing Family Foundation LG Electronics USA, Inc. in memory of Florence Henderson Richard Lin & Evan Zazula Tom Lombardi Fran Macferran Mary McColl David R. McShane & The Samantha Fund Michael Halebian & Co. Inc. Jonathan Mintzer Miriam Schaeffer Family Foundation Calvin Mitchell Jerry Mitchell Ira Mont & Jill Cordle Mont in memory of Annette Mont Elizabeth Murray Phyllis Newman in honor of Adolph Green Paul Oppedisano Tony Origlio Anthony Pisano & James Casey Playbill Inc. ® Dr. Amit Rakhit & Mr. Brad Senatore Michael C. Ray Michael Raymond & Andrew Moyer Merle Reskin Bob Rhodehamel & Dana Snyder

Rose Brand Frank Selvaggi & Bill Shea The Stephanie & Carter McClelland Foundation David Terveen Theatrical Wardrobe Union Local 764 IATSE Stuart Thompson & Joe Baker The Venable Foundation David Wackman & Jason Rardin Nina & Gary Wexler Barbara Whitman Lois Whitman Russ Woolley Wyncote Foundation Anonymous

Box Seat

gifts from $2,500 to $4,999 Actors Federal Credit Union John R. Alchin & Hal Marryatt Richard Ambrose James J. Andrews* James L. Ansin Gerald M. Appelstein* David Glenn Armstrong & Jeffrey Miller in memory of Todd Coroliuc Liz Armstrong Bob Avian & Peter Pileski Paris Baldacci & Andrew S. Dolkart Anne Banfield Jordan Barbakoff & Philip Jeffery in loving memory of Rob Sinacore John Barnes & Charles Champagne Douglas Bella & David Hunt David Benaym* Nan & Joe Benincasa Nancy Duggan Benson Elaine D. Berger James & Melanie Berichon George L. Bielitz & John Derco Robert Billig & Richard Vida Blaine Chuck Blasius in memory of Linda Accardi

Walter Bobbie & David Frye John Bowab Roy Brayton & Mickey Sullivan Briggs, Inc. Cabaret For Life Inc. Cristina Carlson Carleton Carpenter David Cartee Deborah & Steven Cavalier CESD Talent Agency Stockard Channing The Charles & Betti Saunders Foundation Fund Charles and Margaret Levin Family Foundation Charlie & Moll Anderson Foundation Cathy Chernoff Donna & Edward Chernoff Gloria & Charles I. Clough Jr. Paul & Kelly Cole Casey Cook & Gary Steinkohl Corey and Jessica Larry Cosand Thomas Cott* in memory of Philip Carlson Tim Curtis & Shandon Youngclaus Michael David & Lauren Mitchell Todd Davis Paula Kaminsky Davis Merle Debuskey & Pearl Somner Jamie deRoy in memory of Bradshaw Smith Drew Desky & Dane Levens Maria Di Dia & Doug Salmon Christopher Durang & John Augustine Joe Evall & Richard Lynn Bill Evans & Chuck Fischer in memory of Mike Nichols Robert Evers Donald M. Filicetti Kevin & Helen Flanagan** Maggie Flanigan & Richard Dow Kevin Foley-Littell & Stephen Littell Fraydun Foundation, Inc. Vincent Gaeta Marianne Ganzer in memory of John Ganzer Richard Gerrig & Timothy Peterson John Paul Geurts & Robert W. Stolt Suzanne & Boaz Gilad Roger Gindi & Gregory Victor Dale Glasser in memory of Steven Glasser Marilyn & Michael Glosserman in honor of Daryl & Steven Roth Robert D. Gonzales Emily Grishman & Susan Sampliner Jennifer Hatch & Sue Smith Jerry Herman Robert Hickman Geoffrey Hoefer & Thomas Wei William S. Hoover, M.D. Andrea & Craig Horowitz Matthew P. Hui Jerome S. Glazer Foundation John L. McHugh Foundation Howard & Janet Kagan Kelly Karavites in memory of my spouse Francis P. King Amy Kaufmann & Ruth Ro Karen & Howard Kellman Sarah & Joshua Kellman Karen E. Kennedy in memory of Muriel & Bob Kennedy Mark Koblenz

Darius Kohan Dawn Landino Nina & Timothy Lannan William Lauch Jay Laudato & Thomas Watson Stephanie Lee/Group Sales Box Office Michael Leppen Judith Light & Robert Desiderio William Ludel & Tracy Cohen Kevin R. Lyle & Renee Chatelain John J. Mackerey Joseph R Mantello Marangi Disposal Tom Marshall and Kathy Keneally James Martin Scott & Harriet Mauro Marin Mazzie & Jason Danieley in memory of Gary Bonasorte Matt McClanahan & Ed McCarthy Richard McCune & Brian Carroll - City National Bank** Brian Miller & Carol Burnett in memory of Florence Henderson Keith Miller Marianne McGrath Mills Brian Stokes Mitchell & Allyson Tucker in honor of Tom Viola Debra Monk Ruth Neale James L. Nederlander Judith A. Nelson** in memory of Wayne McCarthy Joseph Obermayer Rob O’Neill & Shawn Anderson David Oviedo in memory of Warren Anthony Perkins Joe Pacetti & Tristan Nieves Michael Paleos The PATH Fund/Rockers on Broadway Lee Perlman & Linda Riefberg Bonnie & Alan Petsche Piacentile Family Foundation Brad Plunkett Richard E. Rauh Jonathan Rebell & Noah Levine Richard F. Walsh/Alfred W. Di Tolla/ Harold P. Spivak Foundation Warren D. Riffle & Kurt A. Fleagle Michael Risinger David Romero & David Greiss The Ross Foundation Phil & Dawn Rudolph Steven Schnepp & Mark Basile

in memory of Paul Penfield & John Heppenstall D Mark Schumann Elliott R. Sernel Shake Shack Joseph Short James L. Simon Steve Sweet Tina & Jeffrey Bolton Family Fund TodayTix, Merritt Baer and Brian Fenty Matthew D. Tumminello & Dominick J. Marangi Tom Viola Allen Walker Weinberg Family Foundation Peg & Gary Wendlandt Cory Scott Whittier in memory of David Rupert Hewes Jeff Woodman in memory of Melvin Bernhardt Anonymous (2)

Anonymous in memory of Marian Seldes

Front Mezzanine

gifts from $1,000 to $2,499

The A.R. Hughes Family Fund in loving memory of our cousin Thomas H. Anderson Catherine Adler Jonathan Adler Ken Adler in memory of Ellen Adler Sara M. Allan Gerry & Hank Alpert* Lee Anisman The Apatow-Mann Family Foundation Tyson Armstrong The Arthur Loeb Foundation Jay Axelrod Gary Bagley in memory of Peter Neufeld and Richard Stack Richard P. Baks Christopher & Paris Barclay Clay & Karen Barnes in honor of Gracie & Christina Barnes Scott Barnes & Brian Kellow in honor of Alix Korey’s glorious return to Broadway Vidura Barrios Ivan M. Bart in memory of Adam Balzano D. Alysia Batchelder Andrew C. Baumgartner Beech Street Foundation Alan Bell & David Ziff Russell Berg in memory of Roni Daniel Cheryl Bergenfeld* Mark Bernhardt* Claude Bernstein & Melody Wang James C. P. Berry Phillip Bettencourt Phil & Mary Beuth Jon Bierman Terry & William Biggins Kellen Blair Casey Blass & Lee Manford David Bohnett in memory of Herb Hamscher Miranda Book & Linda Dingler Ann Marie & Robert Borsdorf Joan C. Bowman* Loraine Alterman Boyle Susan Brewster J. Arthur Brost Barry Brown & Douglas Cohn, D.V.M. Michael Buchanan Don Buchwald & Associates Jon Buckland James & Debbie Burrows Katherine Burton in honor of Dale Ellen Leff Jennifer Bush Michelle L. Butler Michael-Demby Cain* Robert Callely Len Cariou & Heather Summerhayes Debra & Kim Carmichael Frank Carucci & David Diamond celebrating our marriage after 35 years of unwedded bliss Raul Castro-Cerrato* Ronald & Ronni Casty Charles & Kristen Cavanagh The Charles & Lucille King Family Foundation

David & Paula Leggett Chase Jonah Chasin Geoff Christiansen Evan Cohen John Contratti Frank Conway* Kenneth E. Cooke Clayton Crawley & Roy Kim William C. Cubberley* Mark Dalton Duke Dang & Charles Rosen* in loving memory of David Panzer Felipe de Bustamante Louis J. Denkovic Ashley DeSimone Charles Deull Alvin Deutsch Senator Mike & Fran DeWine Toni Downey John, Barb & Ginna Doyle Thor Eckert The Edgar Foster Daniels Foundation Valerie Eigner Alan Eisenberg & Claire Copley Steven Elkin Anthony, Kristina & David Ellenbogen The Estate of Patricia Elliott Peter Entin & Barbara Janowitz Eugene and Marilyn Glick Foundation Corporation Bonnie Pfeifer Evans* Shane Ewen Michael J. Fagan Laura G. Fahsbender Arthur M. Fairley James & Anna Fantaci Peter Farrell* Jack Feldman & Matthew Liss Doug P. Fiebelkorn Kenneth and Caryl Field Ronald Fierstein Steven Filenbaum & Matthew Woolf, CFP Elliot Fishman & Dale Abrams Flody Edward & Lori Forstein Sam Fortenbaugh Hervé Foulard & Jonathan Gold* Clay Francis Steve Frasheur Sean Free Barbara H. Freitag James B. Freydberg David A. Friedman in memory of my mother Shirley Friedman Pierre Frinault David M. Fromm in memory of my partner Robert Motley Nancy Gallt Marsi & Eric Gardiner Thomas Garner* Bruce & Alice Geismar The Gelfand Family Foundation Thomas Gentile George Zuber & Anthony Snyder Charitable Fund at Our Fund Inc. John R. Gibson Joanna Gleason & Chris Sarandon Gleiberman Family Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation Jan and Steven Golann Barbara Golden Dr. Guido Goldman* Sam Gonzalez Stefanie M. Gorman

Behind the Scenes

25

Barbara Gottlieb Dane Grams Nancy Kellogg Gray in honor of Danny Whitman Mike Greenly Howard Grossman, M.D. Barry & Maggie Grove Marc J. Gurell Edward E. Hale Jr. Diann Hall in memory of John Rainwater Bradley Hames Sarah & Joel Handelman David G. Hanna* Jane Hanson Eugene Harbin, Jr. Carrie Anne K. Harrell Michael P. Harrell Edward A. Harris & Amy Madigan Harris Family Foundation in honor of Michael Riedel Steve Hatfield & Patrick Riordan* Jeffrey Hayenga & Michael Belanger Craig Hazenfield Michael & Jean Hearne* Joseph R. Heller, Ph.D. Richard Hester & Michael Mastro Highlight NY LLC* The Hilaria & Alec Baldwin Foundation Susan & Neal Hirsch Jim Hoelz & William Welsh Brian Holland Sally Horchow Craig J. Horsley Arthur Hung Bill Hutton in memory of Dr. Joel D. Weisman Peter L. Ianniello, PhD Carol A. Ingram in memory of Peter Neufeld and in honor of Yvonne Ghareeb Ira M. Resnick Foundation Zhila Ismaili Jeanne & Waldo Jackson in memory of our son Robert Jackson Roberta & Robert Jacquet Keith & Patti James The Janis & Alan Menken Foundation Thai Jason in honor of Tom Viola Jerl Machine Inc. Joe Allen Restaurant Earl Johnson & Douglas Ward Barbara Josso & Liz Miloscia Peter Kaczorowski Ilana Kameros Laurence Kaplan* Jodi, Jim, Matthew & Allison Kaye Karin & Greg Kayne Thomas Kazmierczak & Ted Blankenship Gail Kee & Javade Chaudhri James Kelliher Kelpie Arts Samantha S. Kennedy Jeffrey Kent F. Gary Knapp Edgar A. Knudson Konigsberg Family Fund Dr. Ram Koppaka

26

Behind the Scenes

Alix Korey & Randy Hansen Raquel & Tomislav Kostadinov Lillian Kraemer Hilda Kraker* John Kuehn and Elaine Crowley Robert J. Kunikoff Michael Kuzma LaFountaine Family Foundation* Amy Lai & Carrie Borows Nathan Lane in memory of Stanley DeSantis Angela Lansbury Brian Lawlor Winston Bernard Layne* Christopher Leary* Jay H. Lefkowitch Ann M. Lehman in loving memory of Rick Burglund & Gary Warren Phyllis Levinthal in memory of Ruth and Sheldon Levinthal Rosalind Lippel* Diane Lippert Stuart Lippner Michael Lombard Dennis Lonergan & John Graves Tim O. Lorah Steve Lukens Steven F. Lutz Mark & William Macatee Scott Mallalieu & Nat Fuchs Barbara Manocherian Jesse Manocherian The Margolies Team at Compass Real Estate Thomas Marino MASIE Productions Clif Mathews Jo Mayer Leslie & Jordan Mayer Elizabeth I. McCann Peter McKown & Kenneth Heng Kati Meister Svend Mejdal Bill Melamed Jr. & Jamey Lundblad in honor of Judy Dove & Frank Conway Jeff Meleski & Steve Markov Emily C. Melvin MeritDirect, LLC Mr. & Mrs. E. Van R. Milbury Marilyn Miller in memory of Trygve F. Wasbotten Russell K. Miller Michael Mills & Mark McGrath Lin-Manuel Miranda Sherry Ann Mohan Kathleen Moloney Oscar E. Moore William Moore William Morey Javier Morgado & Matt Carmouche in memory of Eddie Sweetnam Sally Campbell Morse Elizabeth Morton Jason & Debbie Moss Bebe Neuwirth & Chris Calkins* Maury Newburger Evan Newman Daniel Nickolich*

Maddi, Charlie & Bridget Niebanck friends of John Lloyd Young Albert Nocciolino Nora Roberts Foundation Steven Noss Dr. Sharon Novak* David O’Brien Christopher Oram John K. Orberg Lisa Orberg Janice Oresman Ron Painter Philip Paroian Gregg Passin Robert Payea III Ralph L. Pellecchio & James C. Wernz, M.D. Charles A. Pellicane Donald R. Pickens Erik Piecuch & Alex Wright* Theresa & Pete Piliero Randall Pinder & Paul Pearson Gloria Piraino Frances Pu Anthony Ramos Andrea and Dennis Ratner Melissa Rauch Monica & Greg Reid Teresa Reyes & Martin Monas* Ed Roberts & Elaine Krauss Jonathan Rock & Patrick DelaCruz Larry Rogowsky Lucy Rose Amy Rosenthal Moe & Jack Rouse Lori Rubinstein & John McGraw in honor of Bill Sapsis Loren Ruch & David Salas Albert Russo* James J. Ruth Riccardo Salmona & Bill Doyle* Wendy B. Samuel Dorothy & Peter Samuels Eddie Sarfaty & Court Stroud Megan M. Savage Carolyn Schiff & Noah Millman S. Fred Schiffman Jack Schlegel* Michael Schober & Don Harrison Susan and Clark Schubach Peter & Susan Schubert Adam Schwab Will Schwalbe & David Cheng Jennifer Scott John Eric Sebesta & William Tomai Debra & Michael Segal Jeffrey Seller Kenneth G. Shelley Jayne Baron Sherman Monty Silver & Tracy Jamar Lisa Simmons Ed Simonelli & Hernando Cortez Jr* Michael J. Smith James Spiegelhoff Eric Stine Meryl Streep & Don Gummer Stuart S. Applebaum Giving Foundation in memory of Mr. Vincent Zito

Katherine Sulenski Christopher Swope & John Flippen Dan & Lynn Tarrence Peter M. Taub Hal Tepfer John Henry Thomas III Lila & George Todd Tim Tompkins Elizabeth V. Toperzer Gissell Torres Stephen & Valerie Toups Jeffrey Trachtman John & Elizabeth Traub Jennifer Trepeck in honor of Sue Gilad Twelfth Night Club Inc. Mark Tynan Beth M. Uffner Richard J. Underwood Sally Unger Emily Vacher in honor of Javier MuĂąoz Joyce Van Patten Richard & Debra Voller Carol Waaser Suzyn Waldman Ryan Walls & Arrash Jalali* Tom & Connie Walsh Alice Wang Arthur E. Webster, Esq. Stephen & Sheryl Weisbuch Ira M. Weitzman Lucille Werlinich Nancy A. Wheeler Frederick M. White & Greg Kammerer Todd M. Whitley & Gary O. Holder in loving memory of James Roe* Danny Whitman & Robert Bartley in memory of Francine Whitman Mr. & Mrs. Richard C. Wiggers in memory of T. Thorne Wiggers Jayne A. Williams Margo Wintersteen Ben Wiseman Terrence J. Witter & Artie de la Cruz Lori A. Yaspan Ilana Zablozki-Amir M.D. Jeff Zadroga in memory of Maestro Jack F. Lee Sonni Zambino & Judy Allen in memory of Panchali Null The Ziegfeld Club Zufall Family Foundation* Elliot Zulver & Sally Gold Anonymous (7)

* I ndicates members of the DRA Angels Circle ** Indicates members of the Broadway Cares and DRA Angels Circles

Behind the Scenes

27

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FIRE ISLAND DANCE FESTIVAL

Sunday, May 14, 8 pm

Monday, May 15, 8 pm

Sunday, June 18, 9:30 pm and Midnight

Nederlander Theatre 208 West 41st Street, NYC

Sardi's 234 West 44th Street, NYC

Hammerstein Ballroom 311 West 34th Street, NYC

Friday, July 14 Saturday, July 15 Sunday, July 16

Behind the Scenes

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31st Annual BROADWAY FLEA MARKET & GRAND AUCTION Sunday, September 24 10 am - 7 pm Times Square, West 44th Street & Shubert Alley, NYC