Gay Men’s Health Crisis honors Michael Urie, currently starring on Broadway in the revival of Harvey Fierstein's Torch Song, with the 2018 Howard Ashman Award for his contributions to the LGBT community and the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Fierstein, the writer and original star of Torch Song Trilogy, is scheduled to present Urie with the award at the 2018 GMHC Cabaret & Howard Ashman Award event, held December 16 at 7 PM at Joe's Pub. Past honorees include Terrence McNally, Javier Munoz, Kathy Najimy, and Tom Viola.

”GMHC has long been a beacon of hope. From the terrifying early days of the epidemic to the confusing present when everyone’s basic rights are at risk, GMHC has had our backs,” Urie said in an earlier statement. “That my small part in the fight means anything to them is humbling and extremely rewarding. They are heroes and I am proud to stand with them.”

“We’re so proud to have Michael Urie on our side as we work to keep HIV/AIDS in the spotlight, and as we strive to engage a new generation with the important work we do every single day on behalf of people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS,” added GMHC CEO Kelsey Louie. “Michael understands the past, present, and future of the epidemic, and has approached his activism in the same thoughtful way he approaches his incredible career in entertainment. And he, like many in the Broadway community, is an important member of the GMHC family of supporters.”

Proceeds from the cabaret support GMHC’s lifesaving programs, which benefit more than 13,000 clients living with or affected by HIV/AIDS each year through testing, prevention, mental health, substance use, legal, housing, and nutrition services.

The Howard Ashman Award is named for the Oscar, Golden Globe, and Grammy Award-winning lyricist of Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, and Little Shop of Horrors, who died of AIDS-related complications in 1991.

Tickets start at $150 and can be purchased by clicking here.