The Public Theater's Gala on the Green, which will launch the 60th anniversary season of Free Shakespeare in the Park, has announced additional guests for the May 24 event at Central Park's Delacorte Theater.
Norm Lewis and Kimber Elayne Sprawl join the line-up of performers, which includes the previously announced Renée Elise Goldsberry and Oscar Isaac. Danai Gurira, who will star in this summer's Richard III in the title role, will make a special appearance along with the already reported Lin-Manuel Miranda.
Gala Co-Chairs Mercedes Bass, Jason Blum, Lauren Shumaker Blum, and Julio Peterson will host. Serving as the evening's musical director will be Meg Zervoulis.
This year's gala will honor Gil Shiva of The Susan Stein Shiva Foundation and Jamie Maleszka, director of creative arts at The Fortune Society, who will be presented with the second annual Community Leadership Award.
The cocktail hour will feature performances by Jina Brass Band and Rich Medina.
“For over 60 years, The Public has created a great celebration of civic unity: Free Shakespeare in the Park,” said Artistic Director Oskar Eustis in a statement. “We honor Gil Shiva and his family, and Jamie Maleszka. Gil has been an unwavering supporter of The Public for over half a century, a Board Member of grace and insight who has given more to us, and to New York, than we can possibly repay. Jamie Maleszka has been doing the work of angels with The Fortune Society, one of New York's most impactful nonprofits. The Fortune Society is dedicated to helping people with criminal justice histories and their families and has been a core partner organization of ours since the creation of Public Works.”
“This year’s Gala feels particularly special as we celebrate 60 years of sharing incredible artistry with all of New York through one of the summer’s most treasured traditions, Free Shakespeare in the Park,” added Executive Director Patrick Willingham. “New York City’s arts and culture organizations continue moving forward with hope and a commitment to a vibrant and equitable future despite the challenges of the pandemic, and we’re especially proud to be making major strides in our plan to revitalize The Delacorte during this anniversary year. It’s a special moment as we ensure that The Delacorte will continue to thrive and serve New Yorkers for generations to come.”
For tickets and more information, visit PublicTheater.org.
