Composer and lyricist Jerry Herman will be honored at the American Theatre Wing's Annual Spring Gala on May 19 at Cipriani 42nd Street. The evening's entertainment will focus on Herman's classic songs, sung by current theater stars. Corporate partner Visa is the evening's other honoree. Proceeds from the event benefit the Wing's continuing support of theatrical education and excellence.
"Jerry Herman has brought joy to theatergoers around the world with his inspired songs and shows," Wing chair Sondra Gilman said in a statement. "It is impossible to think of the American musical without thinking of Jerry Herman. He is deserving of every possible accolade, which is why we are so proud to be recognizing his lifetime of work as part of our work at the Wing."
Herman made his Broadway debut with the 1961 hit production Milk and Honey, followed by the megahit Hello Dolly!, Mame, Mack & Mabel, Dear World, The Grand Tour, A Day in Hollywood/A Night in the Ukraine, Jerry's Girls and La Cage aux Folles. He is the subject of an acclaimed documentary Words and Music by Jerry Herman, which debuted nationwide on PBS on January 1, 2008.
