Broadway paid tribute to Helen Louise Williams, the beloved mother of singer and actress Vanessa Williams.
Helen passed away on December 28 due to complications from acute liver failure.
For more than four decades, Helen taught vocal music in the Ossining and Manhattanville School Districts and Manhattanville College. She had a strong love for music. In addition to being a dedicated educator, she was a proud mother to Vanessa and her son, actor Chris Williams.
The cast of "A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical" honored Helen's memory in a special way.
Since she had such a rich musical background and loved Broadway, it was fitting that the show invited 150 music students from New York City to attend the performance. This gesture celebrated her life and contributions to music education.
James Monroe Iglehart, who plays Louis Armstrong in the musical, led a happy procession through the crowd in the New Orleans style while waving white handkerchiefs. Producer Vanessa Williams, who plays Miranda Priestly in "The Devil Wears Prada," took a vacation to participate in the festivities.
On the street outside Studio 54, Vanessa was greeted by the band, and many fans joined in a lively dance party. Among the guests celebrating Helen's life were June Ambrose, Gena Avery Knowles, Deborah Roberts, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Bevy Smith, and Vanessa's "Ugly Betty" co-star, Michael Urie.
Just a few months prior, in November, Helen had attended the opening of the Louis Armstrong musical and was seen enjoying the festivities at an after-party. She died in London at the age of 85, shortly after celebrating her birthday.
In an emotional Instagram post, Vanessa reflected on her mother's life, sharing, "It's impossible to describe all she meant to everyone because each person saw a different facet of her. Loyal friend to many, icy stares to a chosen few. We will miss it all."
