Braxton Hosts NYC Gala For Obama Inaugural 1/20

On Tuesday, January 20, 2009, BBRAXTON will present the New York City celebration for the historic inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America, with a black-tie gala event at Cipriani (110 E. 42nd St.).

Hosted by Mistress of Ceremonies Brenda Braxton, the inaugural ball will begin at 7 p.m. and will feature an elegant gourmet meal, live entertainment from some of Broadway's best and brightest stars, including cast members from Chicago, In the Heights and The Little Mermaid, as well as the acclaimed Broadway Inspirational Voices. The evening will also feature a live band, premium spirits, a celebrity DJ and a tape-delay broadcast of Obama's inauguration in Washington D.C.

A New York City native and longtime Broadway favorite, gala host Brenda Braxton is a 1995 Tony Award nominee for her performance in the hit musical Smokey Joe's Cafe. She can currently be seen in the lead role of Velma Kelly in Broadway's Tony Award-winning musical smash Chicago. Also a thriving entrepreneur, Braxton owns and operates the Harlem gentlemen's grooming parlor BBRAXTON Exceptional Grooming for Exceptional Men.

"This is a truly momentous occasion in American history," said Ms. Braxton, "To witness the inauguration of the first African-American president is something that millions of Americans and countless New Yorkers could never have envisioned. It's a moment in time that should be celebrated and treasured unlike any other."

"What a thrill it is to commemorate the start of this amazing new chapter in our nation's story" added Tony Award-winning producer Tamara Tunie, who serves as creative consultant for the NYC Inaugural Gala. "We are so pleased to be able to present many of Broadway's top performers, as well as the incomparable Broadway Inspirational Voices, as just one part of what's shaping up to be a truly magnificent evening."

All-inclusive single tickets for the New York City inaugural celebration are available for $300, $500 and $1,000 and are now available by visiting www.bbraxton.com or by calling 212-369-3094.

Tables of 10 are available for $3,000, $5,000 and $10,000 each. VIP tickets and a variety of corporate sponsorship packages are also available. Please call to inquire. Dress is black-tie.

A portion of proceeds from the event will be donated to The Actors' Fund of America, the national human service organization dedicated to helping all entertainment professionals in theatre, television, film, music, opera and dance.

The Actors' Fund's broad spectrum of programs -- designed to address the specific needs of the community -- includes comprehensive social services, financial assistance, supportive and affordable housing, career counseling, and skilled nursing and assisted living care.

Administered from offices in New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago, The Actors' Fund programs help people solve problems and make positive changes in their lives.