Cynthia Erivo Honored at ABT Gala 2026
Cynthia Erivo Celebrates Legacy at American Ballet Theatre Fall Gala
The spotlight is set on a true powerhouse of performance as Cynthia Erivo is set to be honored at the American Ballet Theatre’s highly anticipated 2026 Fall Gala: Angels and Demons. This grand event will take place on Thursday, October 29, at the esteemed David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center in New York City, marking a spectacular celebration of an artist whose work bridges the worlds of film, music, and the stage.
Erivo has cemented her status as one of the most lauded artists of her generation. Her celebrated portrayal of Elphaba in the Wicked films earned her widespread acclaim, but her artistry extends far beyond the silver screen. She is a multi-award winner, boasting a Grammy, a Daytime Emmy, and multiple nominations for a Tony Award and Academy Award, demonstrating an unparalleled command over dramatic and musical storytelling.
Her recent work continues this trajectory of brilliance. In 2025, she secured her second career Grammy for the powerful track “Defying Gravity,” performed alongside her co-star, Ariana Grande, showcasing her incredible vocal and emotional range. Earlier this year, Erivo broadened her theatrical horizons by returning to the West End in Dracula, taking on an ambitious role as one of twenty-three characters in a remarkable one-woman production.
This season, Erivo’s achievements have continued to shine. She has garnered two nominations this year alone: for outstanding variety special (live) as producer/host of the 2025 Tony Awards and outstanding variety special (pre-recorded) as principal performer/host of Wicked: One Wonderful Night.
Susan Jaffe, artistic director of American Ballet Theatre, emphasized the unique gift Erivo possesses. She stated that few artists possess the ability to transform themselves through performance, bringing an uncommon combination of artistry, emotional honesty, and fearless imagination to every role. Jaffe called Erivo an inspiring artist and a deeply meaningful honoree for the company.
Erivo’s connection to the American Ballet Theatre dates back to May 2020, when she participated in the company’s first digital gala, American Ballet Theatre Together Tonight, sharing her talent with the dancers through an a cappella rendition of “America the Beautiful.”
The Fall Gala itself is a dazzling spectacle, themed around “Angels and Demons.” Curated by Jaffe, the one-night-only program will feature stunning excerpts from classic ballets, including Coppélia, Swan Lake, and La Sylphide, alongside powerful performances of choreographers like Frederick Ashton, Michel Fokine, and Agnes de Mille.
Following the breathtaking ballet performances, the celebration will continue with dinner and dancing on the Promenade of the David H. Koch Theater. This premier annual fundraising event not only celebrates artistic achievement but also underscores the generosity of its supporters, led by Gala Grand Chairs Sloan Lindemann Barnett, Violet Barnett, Emily Blavatnik, Laila Blavatnik, Julia Koch, and Mary Julia Koch.
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