Stars of the Great White Way showed up at the Pierre to honor the late Isabelle Stevenson, grande dame of Broadway and former Prez and CEO of the American Theatre Wing (ATW), at the organization’s Annual Spring Luncheon. The former Vaudeville dancer, who died in late December at the age of 90, became synonymous with promoting and supporting the theater—at public events, through ATW’s “Theatre in the Schools” program, and her “Working in the Theatre” seminars. She also played an integral role in the launch of the Tony Awards.
Alec Baldwin hosted the bittersweet event, which featured a special tribute, hosted by Kevin Kline, including performances by Tovah Feldshuh and the ageless, pretty-in-pink Elaine Stritch (who appeared in a fiery short skirt—showing off her great legs — with a matching jacket and beret). Nathan Lane narrated a documentary video on Stevenson that had the audience roaring with laughter.
The luncheon, benefitting the American Theatre Wing’s Educational Program, drew the likes of Tony Roberts, Christine Baranski, Brian Murray, Swoosie Kurtz, Julie Taymor, Anne Heche, Bobby Short, Daryl Roth, Paul Libin, Tony Kushner (whose play Caroline, or Change recently opened), and Karen Ziemba (in the upcoming revival of Bye Bye Birdie).
“I’m crazy about her, she was very hip,” said Stritch of Stevenson. “She knew the glamorous and the bull---- of the theater.” Stritch then offered a prayer in her honor: “Days pass and the years vanish and we walk sightless among miracles.” Following the somber moment, she lightened the mood, belting out, “There’s No Business Like Show Business.”
Baldwin also shared his fond memories: “Isabelle altered the texture of theater, making it warmer,” he said. “She was at every opening and party, no matter how tired she was. She was dynamic when she walked into a room.”
Last Dec. 30, two days after Stevenson’s passing, the marquees on Broadway dimmed in her honor. But the light that she generated will never be extinguished. When the luncheon came to a close, it was as though this great lady was there, about to make her exit …. Perhaps she did.
