Amid growing concerns regarding the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), we have decided to cancel the annual spring gala scheduled for Monday, March 30.

Our first priority is to be responsible partners in community health. In the midst of what is developing into a serious global health emergency, the safety of our guests, artists and staff is of the utmost importance to Signature Theatre.

The enthusiastic response as we planned to honor resident playwright, Anna Deavere Smith and Board President, Nina B. Matis has been extraordinary. To everyone who contributed to this event, we cannot thank you enough for your commitment, which supports our artists, staff and operations during this difficult time.
 

---

  

Two Signature Theatre icons. One unforgettable night.

Anna Deavere Smith is an actor, educator, and writer, whose work has made an indelible contribution to art and society. She is a pioneer in documentary theatre, composing plays from interviews that she has conducted around the world. Signature is deeply honored to have Anna join us as our current Residency 1 playwright. The gala will showcase Anna's work, and she will be honored by Darren Walker of the Ford Foundation.

Nina B. Matis has served as a Signature Trustee for 15 years with tremendous verve and distinction and as Board President since 2017. Nina’s transformational leadership and personal generosity have made an indelible impact on Signature, and this year’s Margot Adams Signature Award will be presented to her by Jay Sugarman of iStar Inc. where she has had a long and successful career.

The gala program will be directed by Saheem Ali, whose critically acclaimed production of Anna Deavere Smith’s Fires in the Mirror launched Anna’s residency. The evening will include tribute performances from Michael Benjamin Washington, Elizabeth Stanley, and more to be announced shortly.  
 

---