DTC Hosts 40th Gala with André De Shields

Dallas Theater Center (DTC), one of the nation’s leading producers of classic and global theater experiences, is proud to announce its upcoming 2024 gala and fundraiser, Centerstage 40: A Brand New Day, to be held on May 4, 2024 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Fashion Industry Gallery. The annual gala is a fundraising opportunity for patrons to support the productions and programs of the TONY AWARD® winning theater company.

The highly anticipated fête will mark the 40th year for the annual Centerstage gala, as well as the 65th anniversary for the Dallas Theater Center organization. The cabaret-jazz-inspired evening will include a cocktail reception highlighting many of the Public Works education and community engagement programs and featuring the Diane & Hal Brierley Resident Acting Company, followed by a seated dinner and program, vibrant live auction & paddle raise, and ending with a musical performance by the celebrated, award-winning Broadway deity, André De Shields. De Shields has previously appeared in two groundbreaking productions at DTC: the world premiere of the musical Fortress of Solitude, and as Prospero in The Tempest, the inaugural production of DTC’s Public Works pageant.

André De Shields. courtesy photo

Leading the efforts for the Centerstage 40 gala as the Event Chair, is Dallas luminary and Founder of HAS Events, Hamilton A Sneed. Sneed has been an integral voice, community partner and served on the DTC Board of Trustees for 10 years. “As the DTC steps into 65 years of producing incredible work on stage, we also celebrate 40 years of exceptional gala evenings featuring local and national talent and honoring the community that makes it all possible,” said Hamilton A Sneed, Centerstage 40 Event Chair. “I believe in the transformative power of live theater and the inclusive work of the Theater Center, and I’m honored to serve as Centerstage Chair in such a celebratory year.”

“Our featured Broadway performer is one of the hardest working men on Broadway,” Sneed continued. “His roles span shows such as Ain’t Misbehavin’, Play On!, The Full Monty, and most recently as Hermes in the Broadway hit Hadestown — a performance that won him his first Tony Award® for Best Featured Actor in a Musical at 73 years young, and a GRAMMY in the same year. We are thrilled to announce that this year’s Broadway entertainer will be a man that I first saw on a Dallas stage in August of 1992, the ORIGINAL (“....so you wanted to meet the Wizard”) WIZ himself — the actor, singer, dancer, multi-talented, award-winning Broadway star, Mr. André De Shields. He’s going to dazzle and delight, with a performance that you won’t want to miss!”

In addition to De Shields, big names have gathered in support of DTC, including the distinguished set of honorary chairs who have demonstrated influential leadership of significance, and a support of the arts throughout the Dallas community. The 2024 honorary chairs include Chairman T.D. & Mrs. Serita Jakes and Helen & Frank Risch.

DTC CENTERSTAGE 40 LINDA AND BILL CUSTARD AWARD HONOREE

Additionally, the Dallas Theater Center honors individuals or organizations for their commitment to service, leadership, and community impact:

The Linda and Bill Custard Award is presented to individuals or organizations that show a sustained and profound commitment to American Theater and support Dallas Theater Center in providing meaningful experiences for diverse communities through the arts. The 2024 Linda and Bill Custard Award will be presented to DTC Life Trustee, Donna Wilhelm. 

“Donna Wilhelm and her family have provided essential support for Dallas Theater Center, including a significant commitment to DTC’s education and community engagement programming, funding, and strategic planning,” said Kevin Moriarty, Executive Director of Dallas Theater Center. “As an artist and author in her own right, she has a deep love and respect for artists, and supports creative risk-taking that leads to artistic innovation. Whether it's a strategic approach to giving or simply her presence, Donna’s gifts are always thoughtful, supportive and tailored to the organization’s specific vision for expanding audiences, access and education. We couldn’t be more thrilled to honor Donna on such a historical occasion.”

More exciting announcements are to come for the upcoming Centerstage 40 event including the luxury raffle experiences, and more. Funds raised from Centerstage make it possible for DTC to continue the inclusive and creative work of the organization. To view sponsorship opportunities (ranging from $10,000 to $25,000) or to purchase tickets (ranging from $1,500 to $2,500), please visit www.DallasTheaterCenter.org/gala.