I was lucky enough to work the 2006 Gypsy of the Year competition, and watched it again in 2007. I hadn’t been to the annual celebration of our community since and last night was a lovely reminder of why this community is so fantastic.

Every year around the holidays, all of the shows on Broadway (of whom are already open) and a handful of off-Broadway shows come together to raise money for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS after performances. This culminates into one huge celebration, the Gypsy of the Year, and celebrates the entire community and presents an award to whichever show raised the most.

Yesterday afternoon’s show including jaw dropping performances and lots of laughs. The cast of The Lion King has always, always had incredible dance performances, and this year was no exception. Bring It On was one of my favorites because it was hysterical, sexy, and mind-blowing. Also: Adrienne Warren was wearing old costumes from the 2000 revival of The Rocky Horror Show, which was a nice blast from the past. Judith Light’s moment on the stage to talk about the theatre community since the 80’s was heartbreaking and inspiring. 

Another favorite: Mary Poppins which performed a skit called “island of the Misfit Shows,” which included shows like War Whores, Grannie, and it’s newest addition, Rebecca. 

There’s one more performance at the New Amsterdam Theatre today at 2:30. If you’re around, check it out. Click here for more information.  

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