Broadway’s Finest Step Up For The Next Generation

By Wes Hessel

The Illinois Conservatory for the Arts premiere annual event, “A Night Of Broadway” Gala & Concert, held February 21st at the Hotel Arista in Naperville, was once again a rousing success, raising funding for 20-plus students, with a evening of unforgettable entertainment. All having achieved excellence on the Great Bright Way, six passionate pros performed primo pieces from the best in musical theatre. Speaking of “SIX”, the fund raiser extraordinaire was hosted by one of the original queens (as Anna of Cleves) of the “herstory” Chicago to Broadway phenomenon, Brittney Mack, and former fellow Henry VIII wife Samantha Pauly (Katherine Howard) – now appearing as Jordan Baker in “The Great Gatsby” – was in the totally talented lineup.

Alongside were five other bright lights from the big city greats – Eden Espinosa, 2024 Tony nominee for Best Leading Actress in “Lempicka”, as well as one of “Wicked”’s original Elphaba’s; Joaquina Kalukango, recipient of the 2022 Tony for Best Leading Actress in “Paradise Square”; Kecia Lewis, winner of the 2024 Best Featured Actress Tony for “Hell’s Kitchen”; Michael Longoria, who was in “Hairspray” and portrayed “Jersey Boys” lead Frankie Valli on the Great Bright Way; and Chicago fixture Christine Sherrill, currently playing Donna in “Mama Mia” on Broadway. A cozy afterparty gave audience members a chance to meet and greet the illustrious lineup.

Another awesome event is coming this June 22nd in Chicago’s West Loop: “A Royal Reunion: Celebrating Six Years of SIX”, featuring the original Broadway queens from the Henry VIII sterling spouse saga, reuniting for a special one-night-only concert at The Fairlie. In the meantime, you can still support arts education in the Western suburbs – please go to www.ilconservatory.org/support. 

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