Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor/singer Darren Criss wowed the Goodman Theatre Gala crowd on May 20, 2023, at the Fairmont Chicago. Over 600 black-tie clad guests celebrated the 45th anniversary of the Women's Board and enjoyed a cocktail reception in the International Ballroom before dinner and a performance in the Imperial Ballroom.
Goodman Theatre Gala with special guest Darren Criss.
As guests tucked into the first course, Darren Criss launched into an hour-long set backed by a three-piece band. He had the crowd in the palm of his hand from the start as he sang songs from Cabaret and a dynamic cover of Katy Perry’s “Teenage Dream.” He proved to be a multi-talented performer playing both the piano and guitar as well as charming the crowd with his winning personality. He received a well-deserved standing ovation.
Goodman Theatre Gala photo gallery
Joan Clifford, Diane Landgren, Neal Zucker, Gary Metzner, Heather Zimmerman WB president Fran Del Boca.
- John B. Reilly
Goodman Theatre executive director Roche Edward Schulfer and Gary Metzner, event co-chair.
Marko Iglendza and Neal Zucker, co-chair.
Darren Criss with Willa J. Taylor, Goodman's Director of Education and Community Engagement.
Sean Eshagy.
Bob and Joan Clifford.
Wendy Krimins and Tina Koegel.
John Robak and Maria Wynne.
Mark and Robin Tebbe.
Sheree Schimmer and Bruce Adelman.
Co-chairs Neal Zucker and Gary Metzner with Darren Criss.
Criss has a long resume of successes including his award-winning performance as serial killed Andrew Cunanan in “The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story.” He rose to fame starring on the television series Glee and has appeared on Broadway and in film. He has also released several musical albums.
Following his performance, Criss took time backstage for select media as well as a meet-and-greet with VIPs. He told this reporter, “I’ve spent many good times in Chicago out of college and I even started a theatre company here. Chicago is sort of the home base for a lot of improv and I have nothing but love and respect for the creative spirit here.”
The Gentlemen of Leisure band enticed guests onto the dance floor with a brightly lit “Goodman” sign shining like a beacon in the background. The event was co-chaired by Diane Landgren, Heather Zimmerman, Gary Metzner and Neal Zucker with Benefit Events Leadership Chair Joan Clifford. The gala raised over $850,000 in support of the Goodman's Education and Engagement programs.
The Goodman Theatre is Chicago’s oldest and largest not-for-profit theater. It has won international renown for the quality of its productions. Next up, “The Who’s Tommy,” which will be reimagined and brought to the Goodman stage on June 13- July 23. (goodmantheatre.org)
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