I wasnโt sure what to expect when I arrived at ย Sony Hall, but the night quickly set sail on a sea of sound and community. Broadway Bound Kids opened with a spirited performance that captured the energy of the eveningโa celebration where Broadway flair met yacht rock grooves, all in support of The PATH Fund (Performing Artists That Help) and its youth program, Rockers on the Rise. Highlights included a standout moment featuring a star of Heart of Rock and Roll Musical ย musical and a show-stopping performance of โHeโs So Shyโ by the Queen of Hellโs Kitchen, Lisa Lisa, bringing the crowdโincluding music icons Paul Shaffer and May Pangโto their feet.
The crowd, decked out in captain hats and ready to rock, transformed Sony Hall into what l could only imagine a Broadway cruise to feel like. What could have been an ordinary Monday night became a musical voyage of Broadway sass and yacht rock smoothness. Beyond the stellar performances, the evening carried real purpose: supporting The PATH Fundโs mission to mentor and uplift the next generation of performers through training, resources, and artistic opportunity.
Host Renee Marino kept the audience engaged throughout the evening with her warmth and infectious energy (and incredible outfit) and I’m still sailing high remembering the sweet voices of singers like Willie Nile, Dominic Nolfie and Lauren Pritchard. One highlight was a surprise appearance by F. Michael Haynie, who delivered a powerhouse performance that lit up the room. Having seen them star in Broadwayโs Heart of Rock, I wasnโt surprisedโtheir charisma shone as bright.
The night continued to build momentum. Jefferson Starship received the Rock Legend Award, their timeless sound washing over the crowd, followed by the incomparable Lisa Lisa, the Queen of Hellโs Kitchen, whose rendition of โHeโs So Shyโ had the audienceโincluding music icons Paul Shaffer and May Pangโon their feet. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I could almost hear Step Brothers yelling, โDid we just become best friends? Yaaacht rock!โโbecause thatโs exactly the vibe.
A lively silent auction added to the energy, with guests eagerly contributing to The PATH Fundโs programs. I even picked up a candle from the swag station, knowing the proceeds would go toward helping young artists find their own voice.
The grand finale brought Jefferson Starship back to the stage alongside the full cast and The PATH Fund Board, creating a final bow of collaboration, mentorship, and gratitude. Produced by Donnie Kehr and Cori Gardner, the concert raised vital funds to keep the arts alive and accessible. For one unforgettable night, Sony Hall felt like it took us out on the seaโwhere Broadway and Yacht rock created waves.
