You may know Keanu Reeves as John Wick, Neo, or (his current role) Estragon in Waiting for Godot, but did you know he's also a theatrical benefactor? On October 27, the actor was honored at the Bushwick Starr, the Brooklyn theatre where he's served as a board member since 2012. The gala raised more than $300,000 for the Starr, including a generous gift from film company Lionsgate in honor of Reeves.
Said Reeves in a statement: “I am honored to be the honoree for this year’s Gala fundraising event for The Bushwick Starr theatre. I have been involved with the theatre for well over a decade and so appreciate the exceptional work they do and theatre they present and programs they create in support of the community and the arts. They have recently finished renovating a new location to build their new home and any support, especially in this challenging time for the arts, is important and greatly appreciated.”
READ: Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter's Waiting for Godot Is for Their Bill & Ted Fans
The event included performances from mentalist and mind reader Vinny DePonto, drag artist God Complex, and queer pop star Softee. The guests included Michael Zegen, Jennifer Damiano, John Rothman, David Kalodner, Alexandra Grant, Julia May Jonas. See photos below.
The Bushwick Starr Theater’s 2025 Gala
God Complex performing at The Bushwick Starr Theater Gala
Softee performing at The Bushwick Starr Theater Gala
Noel Joseph Allain, Keanu Reeves, and Sue Kessler
Alexandra Grant and Keanu Reeves
Keanu Reeves and Alexander Grant
Keanu Reeves honored at The Bushwick Starr Theater Gala
Keanu Reeves honored at The Bushwick Starr Theater Gala
Keanu Reeves
Vinny DePonto performing at The Bushwick Starr Theater Gala
Vinny DePonto performing at The Bushwick Starr Theater Gala
The Bushwick Starr Theater's 2025 Gala
Noel Joseph Allain and Sue Kessler
Keanu Reeves
Keanu Reeves
Said Bushwick Starr co-founders Noel Allain and Sue Kessler in a statement: “We are thrilled to honor our longstanding board member (and beloved cultural icon) Keanu Reeves at this year’s Bushwick Starr Gala. Keanu has been a part of the Starr since our earliest days, when his foundational support helped lay the groundwork for what we've become. A passionate advocate for theatres like the Starr, Keanu has long championed our mission, offering not only his generosity but also his unwavering belief in the value of our work. His steadfast commitment—especially in helping us secure our permanent home—has been transformative, making this celebration all the more meaningful. We can't wait to honor this most excellent human!”
The Obie Award-winning Bushwick Starr is currently presenting the one-man show Blue Cowboy written and performed by David Cale (through November 8). Its 2025–26 season will also include a new puppet musical, Gooey’s Toxic Aquatic Adventure, from La Daniella; and Have You Ever Thought About from Michael Oluokun.
Visit BushwickStarr.org.
