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Renaissance Gala Marks The Reopening of The Laurie Beechman Theatre
The esteemed Laurie Beechman Theatre in New York City is set to make a grand return with the upcoming Renaissance Gala. Scheduled for Monday, April 14 at 7 PM, this event promises to be a spectacular celebration featuring an impressive roster of performers.
Newly added to the lineup are acclaimed artists such as Academy Award winner Ariana DeBose, Tony Award nominee Andrea McArdle, Lorna Luft, and Nina West. They will join previously announced stars including Chip Zien, alongside multiple Tony Award winners like André De Shields, Lillias White, Matt Doyle, and Lauren Patten, as well as talents like Jak Malone, Bryan Batt, Christine Pedi, Joe Iconis, Jelani Remy, Emma Pittman, and JJ Niemann.
The Renaissance Gala is not just a showcase of talent but also serves a charitable purpose, raising funds for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Additionally, the event will spotlight the historical renovations of the venue, expertly overseen by the distinguished Tony Award-winning architect and theater designer David Rockwell.
Music Direction for the evening will be provided by Benjamin Rauhala, with lighting design by Aiden Bezark and creative consultancy by Brendan McCann, ensuring a captivating experience for all attendees.
Opened in 1983, The Laurie Beechman Theatre, once known as the “Downstairs Theatre Bar,” has a rich legacy of hosting iconic figures such as Joan Rivers, The Who, and Tony Shalhoub. The venue has a storied history, having presented over 1,500 one-act plays in its early years. However, when it faced closure in August 2024 due to financial challenges that followed the COVID-19 pandemic, a dedicated team composed of Tom D’Angora, Michael D’Angora, Tim Guinee, and Joe Iconis rallied support to raise nearly $1 million, thereby preserving this vital cultural space.
Source
www.broadwayworld.com