Tina Fey and Wayne Brady will make appearances in the Educational Theatre Foundation's upcoming Theatre Alive! virtual gala, supporting their efforts to increase access to theatre education in schools nationwide. They join a previously-announced all-star roster that includes Jennifer Hudson, Audra McDonald, Amber Riley, and more. The event, which will feature both remarks and performances from the all-star line-up, will stream for free on Playbill January 28 at 8:30 PM ET.
"I’m proud to support Theatre Alive! to help sustain theatre in school for students who need it most," says Fey. "We can’t let a pandemic take away these opportunities that will impact the rest of their lives."
"The belief that arts education should be available to all students, and the recognition of the importance of theatre education in preparing students for whatever path they pursue in life, is shared by our celebrity guests and our sponsors,” adds ETF President Julie Cohen Theobald. "Research shows theatre education teaches life skills including creativity, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration."
As previously announced, Kenny Leon and The Shubert Organization will receive honors during the gala. Samuel L. Jackson and Latanya Richardson Jackson will present Leon with the second annual Craig Zadan Theatre for Life Award in recognition of his dedication to promoting and preserving the joy of theatre, inspiring young artists, and leaving a lasting impact on generations to come; producer Neil Meron will present The Shubert Organization with the Standing Ovation Award, which will be accepted by Shubert Organization Chairman and CEO Robert E. Wankel.
Presenting sponsors for Theatre Alive! include Playbill, Apples and Oranges Arts, Broadway on Demand, The Diller – Von Furstenberg Family Foundation, and iHeartRadio Broadway. AMDA, Kate Capshaw & Steven Spielberg, NBC Entertainment, Concord Theatricals, Nancy & Kenneth Duffy, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Broadway Licensing, Open Jar Studios, Mark Weinstein, California Thespians, Disney Theatrical Group, Dramatists Play Service, Mark Drum, Thomas & Ellen Hoberman, Irene Mecchi, Harley Neuman, and Kevin Yorn are additional sponsors.