The spotlight on this stage was so bright and beautiful.
Last night at Gotham Hall George C. White was honored at the 21st Monte Cristo Awards.
O’Neill’s new Executive Director, Tiffani Gavin, reflected on the carpet that she was thrilled to be a part of the historical presentation. “When I called George and I said, George, I want to give you the Monte Cristo award this year, he said, I didn’t think you guys were ever going to give me the award. I’m so excited. It is truly meaningful that not only was it my first (award presentation. It’s very makes me very happy. I love it.’”
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 11: Eugene O’Neill Theater Executive Director Tiffani Gavin speaks onstage at the 21st Monte Cristo Award Gala on at Gotham Hall on April 11, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for Monte Cristo Award)
White’s career includes not only his 37 years as President of the O’Neill and Chairman of its Board of Trustees, but also numerous activities and accomplishments in theater throughout the world. His contributions to the creation of theater have influenced some of the greatest artists of our time including August Wilson, Wendy Wasserstein, Meryl Streep, Robert Redford, John Guare, Basil Kreimendahl, Jim & Jane Henson, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and many others.
Former Monte Cristo recipient Michael Douglas was also at the lovely gala that gave recognition to a distinguished career, as well as a center for the arts that means so much to the world.
“For me it is such a personal place that came at such a crucial point in the beginning of my career,” stated he legendary actor on the red carpet. “It’s just personal and has so many wonderful memories.”
Douglas along with nearly two hundred guests attended the Eugene O’Neill’s Theatre Center’s 21st Monte Cristo Awards that showcased stunning performances and moving remarks by Norm Lewis, Heidi Blickenstaff, Joshua Henry, Tom Kitt, Stephanie D’Abruzzo, Tyler Bunch, Scott Richards, Paulette Haupt, Ellie Ellsworth and others. Also expected to attend: Betsy White, Mario Cantone, Gordon Clapp, Roselyn Coleman, Inda Craig-Galvan, Patch Darragh, Johanna Day, Angel Desai, Jerry Dixon, Jessica Frances Dukes, John Jellison, Ted Koch, Chalia La Tour, Isabel Keating, Irene Sofia Lucio, Ginna Claire Mason, Matt McGrath, Alex Mickiewicz, Christiane Noll, Clint Ramos, Leenya Rideout, Laila Robbins, Dennis Stowe, Jason Tam and O’Neill Executive Director, Tiffani Gavin and O’Neill Board Chairman Tom Viertel.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 11: An interior view at the 21st Monte Cristo Award Gala on at Gotham Hall on April 11, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for Monte Cristo Award)
The evening was directed by Sarah Cameron Hughes with Music Direction by Cynthia Meng, who brought to life thrilling acts that had the audience laughing and singing along.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 11: The National Theater Institute Class of Spring 2022 & Alumni perform onstage at the 21st Monte Cristo Award Gala on at Gotham Hall on April 11, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for Monte Cristo Award)
When Joshua Henry and Cynthia Meng took the stage for a rendition of “Let It Sing” the entire crowd gave a roaring applause that was felt throughout the room. It was just one of many moments of passionate appreciation for the program that has touched thousands of lives throughout the years.
The evening’s Honorary Committee included: Congressman Joe Courtney, Michael Douglas & Catherine Zeta-Jones, David Henry Hwang, Michael R. Jackson, Judith Light, John Logan, Senator Chris Murphy, Robert O’Hara, Maryann Plunkett & Jay O. Sanders, John Patrick Shanley, Jeanine Tesori, Preston Whiteway and Constanza Romero Wilson.
