Bernadette Peters performs at New 42 Gala June 1 at Plaza Hotel

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• 🔥 Quick Facts
• Where Broadway Royalty Celebrates 35 Years of Performing Arts Innovation
• Bernadette Peters Leads Star-Studded Lineup of Performers
• Three Legendary Theater Figures Honored for Decades of Contribution
• What to Expect: An Evening of Theater, Celebration, and Community
• Will the New 42 Gala Deliver the Broadway Magic New York is Craving?
  • Sources

Bernadette Peters will deliver a stunning performance at the New 42 Gala on Monday, June 1 at The Plaza Hotel. The legendary Broadway icon joins Cheyenne Jackson and other special performers to celebrate the performing arts organization’s remarkable 35-year legacy.

Where Broadway Royalty Celebrates 35 Years of Performing Arts Innovation

The 2026 New 42 Gala represents a landmark moment for the iconic arts organization. Taking place at the prestigious Plaza Hotel in Midtown Manhattan, this evening of celebration brings together Broadway’s brightest talent under the direction of acclaimed choreographer Warren Carlyle. The event will showcase the transformative work New 42 has accomplished over more than three decades of supporting emerging and established artists across New York City’s theater district.

Located at 768 Fifth Avenue, the historic venue provides an elegant backdrop for an unforgettable night of music, performances, and tributes. The gala serves as both a celebration and fundraiser, supporting New 42’s critical mission to develop authentic theatrical experiences.

Bernadette Peters Leads Star-Studded Lineup of Performers

Bernadette Peters, the award-winning star of stage, film, and television, headlines the evening’s performances. Beloved for her iconic roles in Broadway classics like Into the Woods, Annie Get Your Gun, and Sunday in the Park With George, Peters brings unmatched star power to the gala. Her live performance will be complemented by Cheyenne Jackson, the Grammy and Emmy-nominated entertainer who serves as the event’s host and featured performer.

Warren Carlyle, the celebrated director and choreographer, will oversee additional special performances designed to honor the organization’s legacy. Together, these artists will create an intimate and unforgettable evening that celebrates the joy of live performance.

Three Legendary Theater Figures Honored for Decades of Contribution

The gala will recognize three individuals whose remarkable careers have shaped New 42’s history and impact. Tony Award winner André De Shields receives the New 42 Ovation Award for his legendary contributions to theater. Mary Rose Lloyd, the organization’s 30-year artistic director, receives the New Victory Arts Award for her visionary leadership. Sarah Long receives the Marian Heiskell Award for her dedication to the organization’s mission.

Honoree	Award	Recognition
André De Shields	New 42 Ovation Award	Tony Award-winning Broadway legend
Mary Rose Lloyd	New Victory Arts Award	30-year artistic director of New 42
Sarah Long	Marian Heiskell Award	Dedicated organizational leader

“The 2026 New 42 Gala will celebrate all that the New 42 community has accomplished over 35 years and will recognize three individuals who have each played an important role in New 42 history.”

— New 42, Official Statement

What to Expect: An Evening of Theater, Celebration, and Community

The evening begins with a 6:00 PM cocktail reception followed by the 7:00 PM dinner and program. Guests will enjoy live performances from Broadway stars interspersed with tributes to the honorees. The gala supports New 42’s life-changing programs, which include The New Victory Theater, New 42 Studios, and The New 42 Community Engagement initiatives. These programs engage emerging artists, educators, and audiences through innovative theatrical experiences across New York City’s Times Square area.

Festive attire is requested for the occasion. Attendees will dress to celebrate not just the future of New York theater, but the organization’s proven track record of developing authentic voices and creating pathways for artists of all backgrounds and experience levels.

Will the New 42 Gala Deliver the Broadway Magic New York is Craving?

With legendary headliner Bernadette Peters, accomplished host Cheyenne Jackson, and visionary choreographer Warren Carlyle in charge, expectations are sky high for this gala. The event promises to be a star-studded celebration that honors the past while energizing New 42’s future. Given the caliber of talent involved and the organization’s storied history of producing exceptional theater experiences, this June 1 event will likely become one of Broadway’s most talked-about galas of 2026.

Sources

• BroadwayWorld: May 13, 2026 announcement of Bernadette Peters performing at New 42 Gala honoring André De Shields and more
• New 42 Official Website: Complete gala details, honorees, performers, and mission information
• Theatrical Index: April 29, 2026 report on 2026 gala celebrating New 42’s 35th anniversary with performer lineup