Broadway Backwards, which reinterprets Broadway songs into moments of visibility, freedom, and pride, will celebrate its 20th anniversary March 23 at 8 PM at the Gershwin Theatre, home of the long-running hit musical Wicked.

Produced by Broadway Cares, the one-night-only event benefits Broadway Cares and The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center.

By transforming showtunes into queer stories, Broadway Backwards stands as the only annual event on Broadway custom-made for the LGBTQ+ community, friends, and allies. Guest performers will be announced at a later date.

Creator Robert Bartley will return to direct and choreograph the show with Ted Arthur and Mary-Mitchell Campbell as music supervisors. Colby Q. Lindeman joins as associate choreographer, with Amanda LaMotte as co-choreographer and Adam Roberts returning as choreographer and associate director. ARC’s Mark Brandon and Jarrett Reiche will be the casting consultants.

"We first presented Broadway Backwards at the LGBT Center in 2006, and I’ve had the joy of watching it grow with hundreds of unforgettable performances across these past 20 years," said Danny Whitman, executive director of Broadway Cares, in a statement. "This year, these stories matter more than ever. With LGBTQ+ funding at risk and threats rising, Broadway Backwards supports queer communities here in New York through The Center and across the country through Broadway Cares—turning celebration into real, lifesaving impact.

“Broadway Backwards holds a special place in our hearts. Over the past two decades, we’ve seen this unique production grow into a joyful celebration of LGBTQ+ creativity, community and pride,” said Dr. Carla Smith, CEO of The Center. We are deeply grateful for our longtime partnership with Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and for the artists and audiences who make this night so meaningful. HIV and AIDS prevention and support are core to our mission, and this fundraiser helps us continue turning joy into impact, ensuring LGBTQ+ New Yorkers have access to the services they need to live successful and healthy lives."

What began as a small, grassroots concert performed at The Center in 2006 quickly grew into a highly anticipated event presented on Broadway. Last year’s edition raised a record-breaking $1,111,788. In its 19 editions, Broadway Backwards has raised more than $9.7 million for Broadway Cares and The Center. 

Broadway Cares is one of the nation’s leading industry-based, nonprofit AIDS fundraising and grant-making organizations. By drawing upon the talents, resources, and generosity of the American theatre community, since 1988 Broadway Cares has awarded more than $300 million for essential services for people with HIV/AIDS and other critical illnesses across the United States.

Tickets are available at BroadwayCares.org. Prices start at $100 with VIP packages also available.