En Garde Arts is set to honor Theresa Rebeck, the most produced female playwright on Broadway, at its Annual Benefit taking place on December 8, 2025, at the Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theatre at Symphony Space. The event will feature the presentation of the prestigious Change Maker Award by Tony, Golden Globe, and four-time Emmy Award-winning actor Tony Shalhoub, recognizing Rebeck’s substantial contributions to the theater over her lengthy career.
The evening promises an intimate performance lineup, including appearances by three-time Tony nominee Alfred Molina, Tony nominee Marin Ireland, and rising talent Delilah Napier, who will showcase scenes from Rebeck’s play A Foreign Body, written by two-time Emmy nominee Neena Beber and directed by Rebeck herself. Additionally, Krysta Rodriguez will perform a moving number from Rebeck’s television series Smash, while Richard Kind will entertain the audience with a humorous excerpt from Rebeck’s play The Understudy. A special video tribute from the iconic Cyndi Lauper will also be featured, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere.
The funds raised during the Annual Benefit will support six productions in varying stages of development and benefit over 50 writers, composers, directors, and performers through En Garde Arts’s unique residency program, Uncommon Voices. This program focuses on underrepresented communities, fostering the exploration of timely themes relevant to today’s artistic landscape.
For those interested in attending, VIP tickets are available starting at $500, which includes a pre-show celebration at 6:30 PM featuring a champagne toast to Theresa Rebeck, hors d’oeuvres, and exclusive access to the performance beginning at 7 PM. For $250, attendees can join the award ceremony and performance, experiencing an unforgettable night dedicated to celebrating the arts and diversity within the theater community.