An unforgettable night of sequins, sound, and star power transformed Center Theatre Group’s gala into a defining cultural moment for Los Angeles.
The night unfolded as a shimmering declaration of celebration, artistry, and legacy, as Center Theatre Group’s highly anticipated gala took over downtown Los Angeles with a sense of grandeur rarely witnessed in recent memory. By the time the evening reached its crescendo, it had already secured its place as the most extraordinary disco-inspired celebration Hollywood had ever seen, a night where performance, music, and community converged in dazzling harmony.
From the earliest arrivals at Jerry Moss Plaza, there was a palpable sense of occasion. Guests stepped into a world illuminated by vibrant hues and reflective textures, a setting that paid homage to the golden age of disco while maintaining the unmistakable polish of a modern cultural institution. The atmosphere was elegant, yet joyful, and every detail seemed carefully considered to create an immersive experience.
The gala had been presented under the leadership of the Center Theatre Group Board of Directors, with Snehal Desai serving as the Brindell and Milton Gottlieb Artistic Director, Meghan Pressman as Managing Director and CEO, and Jana Bezdek as Gala Chair. Their collective vision had shaped an evening that celebrated not only the organization’s remarkable legacy, but also its enduring relevance in a rapidly evolving artistic landscape.
As guests gathered, the anticipation continued to build. Conversations flowed easily, punctuated by the soft hum of music that hinted at the night’s direction. The promise of an evening that would blend theatrical excellence with the exuberance of disco culture created an energy that felt both nostalgic and refreshingly new.
The significance of the evening extended beyond its immediate spectacle. It marked the eve of Center Theatre Group’s 60th anniversary, a milestone that underscored decades of artistic achievement and community engagement. The gala served as both a celebration of the past and a confident step into the future.
The presence of honorees Phylicia Rashad and Joel Grey elevated the evening further. Their contributions to the theatre world had long been regarded as foundational, and their recognition on this stage added a layer of gravitas to an already extraordinary gathering. Their influence resonated throughout the night, reminding attendees of the profound impact of performance on cultural identity.
As the evening progressed into cocktail hour and dinner, guests were treated to a culinary experience crafted by celebrity chef Suzanne Goin. The menu reflected a commitment to excellence and creativity, mirroring the artistic ambitions of the event itself. Each course was received with appreciation, adding to the sense that every aspect of the gala had been curated with intention.
The transition from dinner to performance marked a turning point. At the Mark Taper Forum, the gala performance unfolded with precision and flair. Selections from Here Lies Love and Mamma Mia! brought an infectious vitality to the stage, blending storytelling with rhythm in a way that captivated the audience from beginning to end.
The performances were more than entertainment. They were a celebration of theatrical innovation and musical expression, bridging generations of audiences and styles. The energy in the room was unmistakable, as applause and movement became part of a shared experience that transcended traditional boundaries between performer and spectator.
When the evening moved back to Jerry Moss Plaza for the party, the transformation was complete. What had begun as an elegant gathering evolved into a full-scale disco celebration. Lights shimmered across the plaza, and the music took on a commanding presence that drew everyone to the dance floor.
Downtown Los Angeles, for those hours, became the music epicenter and the acting heartbeat of the world. The city’s cultural pulse seemed to converge in that single space, where artists, patrons, and supporters moved together in rhythm. The dance floor became a symbol of unity, where distinctions dissolved and the collective spirit took precedence.
Subhead: A Night of Celebration and Community
The gala chairs, Jana and Trevor Bezdek, had played an essential role in shaping this experience. Their leadership was evident in every detail, from the seamless flow of the evening to the sense of inclusivity that defined the atmosphere. The Bezdek family’s dedication was widely recognized, and their efforts were celebrated as instrumental in bringing the vision of the gala to life.
Members of the gala committee, including Nancy and Patrick Dennis, Jay Marcus, Jeanne and Gary Newman, and Marsha Tauber Sallai and Imre Sallai, contributed to an event that balanced sophistication with exuberance. Their collaboration reflected a shared commitment to supporting the arts in meaningful and impactful ways.
The host committee, which included The Ahmanson Foundation, Diana Buckhantz and Vladimir and Araxia Buckhantz Foundation, Center Theatre Group Affiliates, Amy Forbes and Amy Murr, Fox Entertainment, Cindy and Gary Frischling, Patricia Glaser and Samuel Mudie, Robert Greenblatt, Thomas L. Safran, Bonnie Vitti and The Louis and Harold Price Foundation, Dana and Matt Walden, and Kim and Bill Wardlaw, added depth and breadth to the evening’s support network.
The honorary host committee brought together a remarkable group of individuals, including Debbie Allen, Sutton Foster, Patrick Ball, Justin Mikita and Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Jocelyn Bioh, Rick Miramontez, Carol Burnett, Sam Pinkleton, David Byrne, Ben Platt, Ins Choi, Lea Salonga, Daniel Dae Kim, Michael Urie, and Larissa Fasthorse. Their presence underscored the event’s significance within the broader artistic community.
As the night reached its peak, the dance floor remained alive with movement. Sequins caught the light, platform shoes marked the rhythm, and the spirit of disco was reimagined for a new generation. The music carried a sense of continuity, connecting past and present in a way that felt both celebratory and purposeful.
Prince Mario-Max moved through the evening with visible enthusiasm, fully embracing the atmosphere that had been so carefully created. His appreciation for the event was evident, as he joined fellow guests in celebrating the night’s achievements. The experience resonated deeply, leaving a lasting impression of joy and admiration.
The gala stood as a testament to what could be achieved when vision, collaboration, and artistic passion came together. It was a night that honored tradition while embracing innovation, creating a space where creativity could flourish without constraint.
The legacy of the evening extended beyond its immediate impact. It reinforced the importance of cultural institutions in shaping community identity and fostering connection. Center Theatre Group’s commitment to excellence was reflected not only in its productions, but also in its ability to bring people together in meaningful ways.
The recognition of the Bezdek family’s leadership was a defining aspect of the night. Their stewardship had ensured that the gala was not merely an event, but a celebration of shared purpose and artistic vitality. Their contribution was acknowledged with gratitude and respect, marking them as central figures in the evening’s success.
As the final moments unfolded, the sense of fulfillment was unmistakable. Guests departed with memories of a night that had exceeded expectations in every regard. The music lingered, the connections remained, and the impact of the evening continued to resonate.
In every sense, the gala had achieved something remarkable. It had transformed a single night into a lasting statement of creativity, unity, and celebration, setting a new standard for what such an event could be.
