Downtown New York shimmered with style and substance as Theater for the New City hosted its 23rd annual “Love ’n Courage” Gala on February 17, 2026. The elegant and sassy benefit took place at the historic The Players, 16 Gramercy Park South, raising critical funds for TNC’s nationally respected Emerging Playwrights Program.
Awarding of plaque to honoree Estelle Parsons. L-R: Emily Pezzella, Crystal Field, Estelle Parsons. Photo by Jonathan Slaff.
The evening honored Oscar-winning actress, director and activist Estelle Parsons, whose groundbreaking career reflected the fearless artistry the gala celebrated. From her Academy Award-winning role in Bonnie and Clyde to her leadership at the Actors Studio and her historic tenure as the first woman to direct at the New York Shakespeare Festival, Parsons embodied bold creative vision and social impact.
The Head Peddlers perform Champagne music. Photo by Jonathan Slaff.
Proceeds from the gala supported TNC’s Emerging Playwrights Program – one of the most prolific incubators of new American theater. Unlike many development programs that stop at staged readings, TNC provided writers with full productions featuring professional lighting, sets, costumes and marketing support. Each season showcased 10 to 20 emerging playwrights and up to 40 premieres, a volume unmatched in the theater’s 54-year history. Executive Director Crystal Field reaffirmed her philosophy of selecting writers for their historical and social vision, stating, “That is our ballast. Everything else is just decoration.”
Yip Harburg Rainbow Troupe. Photo by Jonathan Slaff.
The gala was hosted by songwriter and performer Phoebe Legere and playwright/director Matt Morillo. During the cocktail hour, guests enjoyed performances by The Head Peddlers and Human Kinetics, along with a special presentation by students from TNC’s after-school cultural arts program.
The 8:00 PM mainstage performances featured downtown legend Charles Busch, who captivated the audience with “The Black Freighter” from The Threepenny Opera and Noël Coward’s “Heigh Ho! If Love Were All.” Additional performances included Mimi Block & Rome Neal, the Yip Harburg Rainbow Troupe, selections from TNC’s 2025 Street Theater musical Home Sweet Home, or a Life In New York, and more.
Civic leaders were also in attendance, including Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman and City Council member Gale Brewer. Hoylman praised Brewer during his remarks, saying, “Gale set a high bar with her successes.”
As the evening concluded, Crystal Field left the crowd with a stirring message: “We want to inspire you to go out and fight for democracy and fight for art.”
The night blended glamour, grassroots activism and unforgettable performances. A true celebration of love, courage and the enduring power of theater.