The stage lights at Green Room 42 in Times Square shone brightly as theater artists, producers, and supporters gathered for the 2026 TRU Love Benefit, CHANGING HEARTS… the power of theater. Hosted by Theater Resources Unlimited (TRU), the annual fundraiser blended performance, recognition, and community spirit into an afternoon that celebrated both artistic achievement and the future of the industry.
At the center of the celebration was Tony Award winner Tonya Pinkins, who received the TRU Humanitarian Award. Over a career spanning decades, Pinkins has been recognized not only for her commanding performances but also for her unwavering advocacy for equity and inclusion in the arts. Tributes to her work included musical selections from Jelly’s Last Jam and Caroline, or Change, along with a nod to her Broadway debut in Merrily We Roll Along. A powerful monologue from A Raisin in the Sun capped the segment honoring her legacy.
The TRU Spirit of Theater Award went to producing partners Bonnie Comley and Stewart F. Lane. Known for shepherding major Broadway hits, the pair were also recognized for co-founding BroadwayHD, a platform that has made filmed stage productions accessible to audiences around the world. Their body of work was celebrated with songs from shows including La Cage aux Folles, The Will Rogers Follies, Thoroughly Modern Millie, and A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder.
The afternoon’s program, directed by Jonathan S. Cerullo with music direction by Clare Cooper, featured Broadway veterans and emerging artists alike. Special guest presenters added star power, underscoring the respect the honorees command within the theater community. TRU also took a moment to honor the memory of producer Jack W. Batman, a longtime advisory board member and friend.
While the performances brought applause and standing ovations, the heart of the event lay in TRU’s mission. The nonprofit provides education, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for producers and theater professionals at all stages of their careers. As the program concluded, supporters pledged funds to sustain these initiatives, including scholarships designed to cultivate the next generation of diverse producing talent.
In an industry built on collaboration, the benefit served as a reminder that behind every successful production is a network of artists and advocates working to keep the curtain rising.
