Porchlight Music Theatre’s 2024 ICONS Gala, held at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, marked the kickoff of Porchlight’s 30th season and supported the organization’s mission to honor the past, present and future of music theatre through its artistic, educational and community programming.
Drawing nearly 200 theater lovers, the gala honored Michelle and Steve Cucchiaro with the Luminary Award and Broadway and TV star Raúl Esparza with the ICON Award. Notable attendees included Board Chair Gretchen Upholt, Vice Chair Brandon John Harrington, Development Co-Chair Rhona Frazin and Board Treasurer Todd Arp. Additionally, Jenna Deja was recognized as she assumed the role of interim executive director, succeeding Executive Director Jeannie Lukow.
The event raised over $200,000, with Rick Bayless leading a live auction featuring stays in New York and Provincetown. WGN’s Paul Lisnek interviewed Esparza, while Michael Weber directed an afternoon filled with performances by Porchlight favorites and Chicago stars. The musical celebration showcased Esparza’s career, with songs from Oliver!, Grease, Evita, The Rocky Horror Picture Show and more.
Nate Groonwald and Lisa Villani-Gale led the live auction and paddle raise.
Rick Bayless encouraged support for Porchlight during the live auction.
Raúl Esparza accepted 2024 ICON Award.
Marcie McVay, Dennis Zacek, Deanna Dunagan, Raúl Esparza, Sandy Shinner and Jerry Wilson
Raúl Esparza and Paul Lisnek discussed Mr. Esparza’s career in musical theater.
Ava Stovall and Juwon Tyrel Perry performed classic Broadway songs.
Photography by: SARAH ELIZABETH LARSON
