There was an enchanting feeling in the air as guests arrived at the Marriot Marquis for the highly anticipated gala, "A Magical Evening," benefiting The Christopher Reeve Foundation. It was a stellar night hosted by a bevy of celebs, including Robin Williams, who had the crowd in stitches. Paul Newman and Meryl Streep spoke passionately about CRF's dedication to finding a cure for spinal cord injury and improving the quality of life for people living with paralysis. Newman, who had already pledged to donate $50,000, drew a rise from the crowd when he declared, "What the hell, make it $100,000!"

Gala Chair Dana Reeve, all smiles, looked stunning in a floral, floor-length Dolce & Gabbana gown. This was her first public appearance since her lung cancer diagnosis in August, just 10 months after the death of her husband, Christopher Reeve. Dana, 44, openly admitted that her beautifully coiffed, strawberry-blond hair was a wig, as she has been losing her hair due to her current treatment.

The evening honored Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas with the Christopher Reeve Spirit of Courage Award, in recognition of their ongoing support of the CRF mission. Hollywood's glam couple also celebrated their wedding anniversary, only a day away, on this special night. (Both actors share the same birthday, Sept. 25th, as did their friend, Chris Reeve.)

In the lofty crowd: Chairs Francine LeFrak and Rick Friedberg, and Chie Imai; Joanne Woodward; Glenn Close; Diane Sawyer and Mike Nichols; Meryl Streep; Uma Thurman; Joan Collins and Percy Gibson; Star Jones Reynolds; Caroline Hirsch and Andrew Fox; Elaine Sargent; Hunt Slonem; Barbara Orbison; Donna and Richard Soloway; Jane Altschuler; and Kathy Sloane. Christopher would be proud, indeed, of Dana's valiant efforts to carry on his dream for a cure!