The Public Theater Gala in Central Park

May 2022. New York City, Central Park, The Delacorte Lawn

Empire was proud to partner with The Public Theater to produce their annual Gala, live and in person.

This year’s theme, the “Gala on the Green” began with guests arriving at The Delacorte lawn for a sunset cocktail hour. After a quick check-in and COVID compliance process, guests enjoyed views of Central Park with a step-and-repeat for photos, a fun flower crown making activity as well as a sketch artist, who artfully captured guests' portraits. DJ Rich Medina kicked the night off with an upbeat set during cocktails before a brass band led the guests to the lawn outside The Delacorte Theater for the seated dinner and program.

Once the 700 guests were seated, they enjoyed an evening program that featured performances by Renée Elise Goldsberry, Oscar Isaac, Kimber Elayne Sprawl, Kelli O’ Hara, with remarks by Actress and Public Theater Trustee, Danai Gurira, Artistic Director of the Public Theater, Oskar Eustis and Public Theater Board Chair andTheater Producer, Arielle Tepper, all under the stars and sprinkled twinkle lights.

The event was emceed by Liev Schrieber and honored the singular Gil Shiva, whose leadership, integrity, and stewardship of the Susan Stein Shiva Foundation have guided The Public Theater for decades.The dinner ended with The Public presenting its second annual Community Leadership Award to Jamie Maleszka, Director of Creative Arts at The Fortune Society, one of Public Works' founding community partners, while guests dined on delicious desserts by Union Square Events.

With an online auction, ticket sales and in person donations, The Public Theater raised over $2.2 million supporting the arts, artists and commitment to producing theater for all.

Empire worked closely with The Public Theater, Hometown Flower Co, Rana Florals and many other partners to deliver this beautiful night. Empire’s scope of work included overall management and coordination, technical design and production, decor, logistics and vendor coordination.

Empire was extremely proud to partner again with The Public Theater and bring back live events stronger than ever.

To learn more about The Public Theater and their programs and to become a member and supporter, visit http://www.publictheater.org/

Photos by: David Nicholas

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