224-CSI-9305
2026 GALA

Curtain's Up

Harlem School of the Arts Celebrates Broadway

2026 Gala Recap

Curtain’s Up: HSA Celebrates Broadway

Thank you for an unforgettable night in support of HSA’s students and programs.

$1.3M+

Raised for HSA’s Students & Programs

60+

HSA Students Took the Stage

“The night was a beautiful reflection of what makes HSA so special: talented young artists sharing their creativity, confidence, and passion with a community that believes in their potential.”

As we closed the books on HSA’s 2026 Gala Celebration, we were reminded once again why access to high-quality arts education can be truly life-changing. Together, our community raised more than $1.3 million in support of HSA’s students and programs — generosity that will help ensure young people continue to have access to transformative arts education, regardless of financial circumstance.

What has stuck with us most after the Gala is the sense of possibility that surrounds our students when they are fully supported and encouraged to pursue their artistic voices. HSA exists to ensure that talented young people have a place where their creativity is nurtured, their individuality is celebrated, and their futures are expanded. Thank you for helping make that vision real every single day.

James C. Horton signature

James C. Horton

President & CEO, Harlem School of the Arts

Relive the Night

2026 Impact Snapshot

From Here You Can Go Anywhere — see what your support makes possible.

View the Snapshot

Gala Photo Gallery

Courtesy of Margot Jordan Photography.

View Photo Gallery

Watch the Gala Reel

A short reel capturing the joy, artistry, and energy of the evening.

▶ Watch the Reel

About the Evening

A Broadway Celebration

HSA students in costume at the Gala performance

On Friday, May 8, 2026, HSA hosted its Annual Benefit Gala at the iconic Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City. Guests were swept into the magic of New York’s legendary theatre district as the evening brought the spirit, excitement, and theatrical brilliance of Broadway center stage. Our remarkable students — guided by their dedicated instructors — transported the room into a world of bright lights, bold storytelling, and unforgettable musical moments that define Broadway’s legacy.

The evening included a sparkling reception, a show-stopping dinner and Gala program, and a high-energy after-party with decadent desserts and dancing, featuring the iconic D-Nice.

This year’s Gala celebrated the extraordinary legacy of artists, innovators, and visionary leaders, honoring:

Vanessa Bell Calloway

Vanessa Bell Calloway

Actress, Director & Producer

Jeffrey Seller

Jeffrey Seller

Producer of Rent, Avenue Q, Hamilton, In the Heights

Robyn Coles and Dr. N. Anthony Coles

Robyn Coles & Dr. N. Anthony Coles

Robyn Coles, Tony Award–Winning Producer & Board Member of American Theatre Wing, and Dr. N. Anthony Coles, Global Healthcare Leader, Trustee of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Council Chair of the Smithsonian NMAAHC

“You are why we are here tonight. … One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned: you must become comfortable being uncomfortable.”

— Robyn Coles, from her remarks to HSA students

Anjelica Kelly Watson
John Watson III

Anjelica Kelly Watson & John Watson III

Anjelica Kelly Watson, Managing Director of Firm Strategy and Execution at Morgan Stanley, and John Watson III, Senior Managing Director, Tactical Opportunities at Blackstone

Thank You for Believing in Our Mission

We’re deeply grateful to have you as part of the HSA community, and we look forward to welcoming you to HSA in the months and years ahead.

Support HSA’s Students

Questions? Contact us at jkitt@hsanyc.org