Lincoln Center's May Gala to Celebrate 'Jazz and Broadway' With Vanessa Williams

For jazz, some of its most beloved standards were born on New York City's Great White Way. And with that, Jazz at Lincoln Center has announced that its forthcoming May gala will champion that idea with a celebration in the theme of "Jazz and Broadway" with Vanessa Williams.

The ceremony, which will be held May 9 at JALC's headquarters on 60th street, will celebrate everything Broadway has to offer in the way of jazz. A one-night only benefit, the event will take place at 7 p.m. at Frederick P. Rose Hall.

Vanessa Williams will host the celebration alongside the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis. Also on the docket for performances is Chris Botti, Aaron Diehl, Raul Esparza, LaChanze, Norm Lewis, Marilyn Maye, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Chita Rivera, Denzal Sinclaire, Tommy Tune, Daniel Ulbricht, dancers from Shuffle Along and more.

According to a press release, the theme of the night is to highlight "the music of Broadway and the profound influence jazz has had on the Great White Way throughout history."

Also a part of the evening will be the Emmy-nominated Robert Pullen, who will direct the show, and choreographer Christopher D'Amoise. All proceeds will benefit diverse education programs and resources that Jazz at Lincoln Center produces each year.

It's also been noted that JALC will present the Ed Bradley Award for Leadership in Jazz to Diana DiMenna. DiMenna, who is a board member, will be honored alongside her husband, hedge fund manager Joe DiMenna.

Lately, Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra embarked on its longest tour in almost 15 years. In fact, the jazz band performed its George Gershwin Songbook repertoire at London's Barbican on Feb. 20 as part of the set list.

Nonetheless, ticket prices for JALC's May celebration begin at $2,500 and table prices begin at $35,000. For tickets, please contact Jazz at Lincoln Center Special Events at 212.258.9980 orspecialevents@jazz.org.

In the meantime, check out a preview of Mr. Marsalis and the orchestra below.