Black Theatre United's third annual Gala will be held September 29 at the Ziegfeld Ballroom. 

The evening, with the theme "United: Today & Beyond," will honor producers Mathew Knowles, Gena Avery Knowles, Tonya Lewis Lee, and Lester Coney as well as five-time Tony-nominated director and choreographer Camille A. Brown (Gypsy, Hell's Kitchen). Recently retired Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS Executive Director Tom Viola will receive a Special Recognition Award.

Performers for the annual event will be announced at a later date.

The honorary co-chairs include Al Roker and Deborah Roberts, Common, Josh Groban, Karine Jean-Pierre, Tamron Hall, Sherri Shepherd, Ariana DeBose, Whoopi Goldberg, and Sheryl Lee Ralph. Gala co-chairs include Julie Boardman and Anthony and Robyn Coles.

Proceeds from the Gala will support BTU’s empowering programs, including The BTU Rise Marketing and Press Internship, The New Deal for Broadway, Business of Show discussion series, Community Town Hall events, BTU Designer Initiative, the Marva Hicks Musical Theatre Scholarship, and BTU’s Broadway Bound Educational Program.

Vice President and co-creator of the Gala Michael McElroy said in a statement, "Since our inception, the founders of BTU have always believed in working with our entire artistic community to move towards becoming a space where all identities, and stories are valued, and centered as they boldly celebrate the breadth of humanity. This year's gala performances will partner founders with allies in musical moments that remind us of the power of our art form when we partner in song. Only when we continue to unite can our industry boldly and with great intention move towards fulfilling its fullest potential as a space for all."

Founded in 2020, BTU’s mission is to provide access for up-and-coming Black artists, pathways for art makers, and opportunities for industry professionals historically marginalized within the theatre world and beyond.

Tables, which begin at $12,000, are available now at BlackTheatreUnited.com/Gala. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.