“Marvin Hamlisch embodies the way we at the Sharon Playhouse think about making theatre. He was not only an icon in theatre, film, and music—but he was a man who cared deeply about the way in which music can make a difference in the lives of people,” said artistic director John Simpkins in a statement. “Marvin lived in our community for a time and we are thrilled to establish an award in his name. There is no finer person to be the inaugural recipient of the award than Glenn Close, another artist and person synonymous with excellence.”
The evening will begin with cocktails at 5:30 PM followed by the 6:30 PM performance, which will feature Jason Tam, Eric William Morris, Lauren Marcus, pianist Peter Dugan and violinist Charles Yang. John Simpkins will direct with music direction by Joshua Zecher-Ross.
Close recently returned to the semi-staged London revival of Sunset Boulevard, after a brief hospitalization for a chest infection, according to telegraph.co.uk. She continues in the English National Opera production through May 7.
Gala tickets ($125) include the entertainment, award presentation, silent auction, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, champagne and dessert. For more information visit Sharonplayhouse.org or call (860) 364-7469, ext. 100 to purchase tickets.
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The Sharon Playhouse 2016 Season includes Tony winner Karen Ziemba in Gypsy (June 16- July 3); Nicholas Ward in Big River (July 21-31); and Tony winner Elizabeth Franz in Quartet (August 18-28) on the Mainstage. Klea Blackhurst stars in Kooman and Dimond’s Judge Jackie: Disorder in the Court (July 7-17) and Jennifer Werner directs I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change (August 4 –14) on Stage 2 in the Bok Gallery.