After not being able to celebrate the Dance Theatre of Harlem’s Annual Vision Gala for two years, due to Covid-19, the Vision Gala came back with a bang of excitement! DTH choose powerhouse Dancer, Actor, and Director, Debbie Allen as the Award Honoree of the Year!

Ms. Allen’s expansive career spans three decades of creating in a plethora of different art industries. Her website impressively showcases her vast resume, stating, “Ms. Allen has earned three Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, five NAACP Image Awards, a Drama Desk, an Astaire Award (for Best Dancer), and the Olivier Award. She holds four honorary Doctorate degrees, and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She was appointed by President George W. Bush to represent the United States as a Cultural Ambassador of Dance.” Ms. Allen was also awarded the Emmy Awards’ 2021 Governor’s Award, where she boldly said, “sing your song, tell your stories,” in her acceptance speech.

The Vision Gala Ceremony hosted an evening of dances ranging from ballet to modern at the New York City Center, and between transitions, played inspirational videos showcasing Ms. Allen’s performances and life story. A standing ovation awaited Ms. Allen as she gracefully accepted her Vision Award on stage and thanked The Dance Theatre of Harlem for the Honor. The evening continued to the next venue at the Ziegfeld Ballroom, where guests where treated to delicious fine dining, fun 360 degree photo-ops, and an energetic dance floor to end the celebratory evening on a high note!