The annual award is presented to an individual who has achieved
outstanding artistic achievement in theatre. Leavel won her Tony for her performance in the title role of The Drowsy Chaperone, and her numerous other Broadway credits include The Prom, Lempicka, Bandstand, Elf, Mamma Mia!, Young Frankenstein, 42nd Street, Crazy for You, The Civil War, Show Boat, and Baby, It's You!
The Broadway favorite will be honored at the Society’s 2025 Benefit November 17 at The Arts Club of Chicago. Following
a reception, the evening’s program will include musical selections from Leavel’s theatrical outings. Chistopher Pazdernik will direct the program with music direction by Beckie Menzie. NBC 5 Chicago features reporter LeeAnn Trotter will host.
Sarah Siddons Society President Martin Balogh said in a statement,
“It is an honor for the Sarah Siddons Society to present Chicago’s
oldest and most prestigious theatre award this year to Beth Leavel. Beth,
with her powerful vocal skills and impeccable comedic timing, has
brought an incredible authenticity to each of her 15 Broadway
roles. We could not be more pleased than to present the Sarah Siddons
Society Award to this immensely talented individual.”
The evening will also feature the induction of the Sarah Siddons Society 2025 Scholarship Recipients.
Proceeds benefit the Sarah Siddons Society Scholarship Program,
dedicated to funding scholarships for promising theatre arts students at
top Chicago area universities.
Single tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available by clicking here.
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Photos: Lea Salonga, Bernadette Peters, Beth Leavel, More in Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends
Photos: Lea Salonga, Bernadette Peters, Beth Leavel, More in Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends
22 PHOTOS
Company of Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends
Matthew Murphy
Company of Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends
Matthew Murphy
Jasmine Forsberg, Beth Leavel, Bonnie Langford, Bernadette Peters, Lea Salonga, Joanna Riding, Kate Jennings Grant, and Maria Wirries in Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends
Matthew Murphy
Joanna Riding and company of Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends
Matthew Murphy
Bernadette Peters in Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends
Co-presented with The Grammy Museum, the event came just after the Best Musical winner picked up a 2026 Grammy nomination for Best Musical Theater Album.