Broadway Bound Kids (BBK) celebrated an unforgettable evening at City Winery NYC on February 2, raising over $80,000 at their fourth annual Broadway Bound Benefit: Empower State of Mind. The funds will support free summer programs and expand performing arts opportunities for over 2,000 students across nearly 50 New York City schools.
Photo credit: Katie Mollison
The night featured dazzling performances from Broadway stars Kate Baldwin (Chicago), Olivia Donalson (Six), Kelsey Kimmel (Hell’s Kitchen), Storm Lever (Six), Daniel Quadrino (Wicked), and Jacob Keith Watson (Ragtime), alongside BBK students. Highlights included a dance and vocal mash-up of Madonna’s Express Yourself and Lady Gaga’s Born This Way, a Hello, Dolly! medley, a SIX reunion, and empowering songs by BBK students and teaching artists.
The event honored the second Broadway Bound Legacy Awardees—The PATH Fund, Inc., Cori Gardner, and Donnie Kehr—celebrating their dedication to supporting artists and arts education. Awardees shared the stage with BBK students for a spirited performance of Billy Joel’s New York State of Mind and Starship’s We Built This City.
BBK seniors in the new Bridge to Higher Education program also performed, including a memorable duet of David Guetta and Sia’s Titanium, sharing their journey of friendship, growth, and belonging fostered through BBK. The evening concluded with BBK’s Community Theater Ensemble performing Alicia Keys’ Empire State of Mind.
BBK Founder Erin Glass highlighted the organization’s mission: “Young people deserve access to the arts – full stop. They deserve opportunity and people who truly believe in them.” Executive Director Lizzie McGuire emphasized the importance of community, creativity, and resilience in challenging times.
With the most funds ever raised at an annual benefit, BBK is set to expand programs, provide mentorship, and continue offering free performing arts education to young people throughout New York City.