Central Park Conservancy hosted its Annual Gala. This year’s event, the 'Central Park Supper Club', was generously supported by Presenting Sponsor Harry Winston, Inc., and featured musical entertainment from New York’s own—the iconic Tony Danza and rising jazz star, Stella Cole.
Tony Danza, one of the world’s most beloved entertainers, is best known for his starring roles on the iconic television series Taxi and Who’s The Boss, as well as his Broadway and song-and-dance performances. Stella Cole, with a voice that bridges generations, brought fresh interpretations of classic repertoire on her Decca Records debut album, It’s Magic.
Tony’s captivating renditions of That’s All and The House I Live In set the stage for the Supper Club theme, while Stella enchanted guests with Moon River, Anything Goes, and other beloved favorites. Their performances created an unforgettable New York moment in Central Park, highlighting the Conservancy’s mission to maintain and care for the City’s most treasured greenspace.
“Each year, this evening is a joyful moment that brings together the extraordinary community who champions and celebrates Central Park,” said Central Park Conservancy President and CEO Betsy Smith. “For more than four decades, the Conservancy’s work has been made possible by New Yorkers who believe in caring for this cherished greenspace. I’m deeply grateful to our supporters, whose generosity ensures that Central Park remains a beautiful and welcoming place for the millions who rely on it every day. And we are so appreciative of Tony Danza and Stella Cole for sharing their tremendous talents to honor the Park.”
President and CEO Betsy Smith was joined by Event Co-Chairs Andra and John Ehrenkranz, Evelyn and David McCabe, Gillian and Sylvester Miniter, Anna Bender-Zeckendorf and William L. Zeckendorf, and guests including Judy Hart Angelo, Rick Cotton, Fe and Alessandro Fendi, Michael Fisch and Eliza Ravelle-Chapuis, Tracey and Craig Huff, Kitty and Tom Kempner, Susan Magrino, Fern Mallis, Margo Nederlander, Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos, and more.
Attendees celebrated the Park over cocktails with spirits generously provided by William, Grant and Sons and wines by Copper Cane Wine and Spirits, followed by dinner and dancing under a tent at Rumsey Playfield. Abigail Kirsch Catering designed the meal, while DeJuan Stroud, Inc. created the evening’s thematic Supper Club decor.
The Central Park Conservancy’s annual benefit events are essential to funding its work to preserve Central Park for millions of New Yorkers and visitors alike.
Image credit: Matteo Prandoni/BFA and Sean Zanni/PMc/Getty