The Late James Gandolfini at the Stella by Starlight Benefit Gala
Stella by Starlight, a gala celebration to benefit the Stella Adler Studio of Acting was held June 10th at Espace, in New York City. Alec Baldwin, Liza Minnelli, and James Gandolfini were among the celebs that came out to show support.
"They're raising money tonight so anybody can go to Stella Adler on a scholarship if you are good enough," said Bernadette Peters, who gave a live performance.
Alumni and now TV actors, Jane Levy and Keith Powell hosted the event. "It's really exciting, I use to go to school here not that long," said Levy who now stars on Suburgatory.
Her cohost, 30 Rock regular, Powell also expressed how h we talked about this galas when I was going to school here and now to be a part of it and to host it, its quite an honor."
Also feeling honored was former Star Treker, George Takei who received the Harold Clurman Spirit Award for courageous contribution to the culture of the city of New York and beyond. Other honorees included Stephen Sondheim with the Marlon Brando Award, Charles Cohen with the Stella Adler Corporate Award, and a special presentation to Emmy and Tony Award Winner Elaine Stritch.
Takei reflected on the reason for the event, "Well this evening is an opportunity for those people that admire Stella Adler, the work that she's done."
Among the admirers, actress Liza Minnelli who expressed Adler's deep impact on theater, "She's part of the stage, Stella Adler is built into every stage."
To make a donation to the Stella Adler Studio of Acting visit http://www.stellaadler.com/donate/