Jerry Herman Honored at American Thetre Wing Spring Gala

The American Theatre Wing, the not-for-profit service organization dedicated to recognizing excellence and supporting education in theatre, will honor acclaimed composer and lyricist Jerry Herman, as well as steadfast corporate partner Visa Inc., at the Wing's Annual Spring Gala on Monday, May 19, 2008.

The event will take place at Cipriani 42nd Street with a cocktail reception at 6:30 p.m. and dinner at 7:30 p.m.  The evening's entertainment will focus on Mr. Herman's classic songs, sung by many of today's theatrical stars.  Proceeds from the event benefit the American Theatre Wing's continuing efforts in support of theatrical education and excellence.

The ATW Spring Gala is chaired by CeCe & Lee Black, Bettina & Franz Burda, Carole & Frederick Guest, and Chappy & Melissa Morris, as well as Sondra Gilman and Doug Leeds, the chairman and president of the American Theatre Wing.  Jon Wilner is producing the entertainment.

Jerry Herman has won multiple Tony Awards for his music and lyrics. Herman made his Broadway debut with the 1961 hit production, Milk and Honey and shortly after, Hello Dolly! Since then Herman has received countless honors, including Grammy Awards, Drama Desk Awards, Johnny Mercer Award, Oscar Hammerstein Award, Frederick Loewe Award, Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Theatre Hall of Fame. Other Broadway productions with words and music by Herman include the 1966 Tony Award nominated Mame and Tony Award winning La Cage aux Folles. Additional Broadway highlights include Mack & Mabel, Dear World, The Grand Tour, A Day in Hollywood/A Night in Ukraine, and Jerry's Girls.  He is subject to an acclaimed documentary by Amber Edwards, "Words and Music by Jerry Herman" that debuted nationwide on PBS on January 1, 2008.

Tickets for the black-tie gala range from $2,500 to $700, with tables of 10 starting at $7,000.  For more information and to order tickets, call 212-765-0606 x302.

Jerry Herman