News Summary
The Pell Awards Gala recently took place in Providence, honoring luminaries in the arts including Tina Fey and Kelli O’Hara. Hosted by Trinity Rep, the event raised nearly $400,000 for arts programs while showcasing the contributions of various honorees. In addition to individual achievements, the gala highlighted upcoming events aimed at enriching Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, emphasizing the importance of creative leadership and community support.
Providence, Rhode Island – The 26th Pell Awards Gala took place on June 10, 2025, at the Lindemann Performing Arts Center at Brown University, celebrating prominent figures in the arts community. Hosted by the Trinity Repertory Company, the evening honored several esteemed individuals in the theater, arts, and advocacy sectors, raising nearly $400,000 for Trinity Rep’s artistic, education, and community engagement programs.
This year’s major honorees included Tina Fey and Kelli O’Hara, both recipients of the Pell Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Arts. Fey, an Emmy Award-winning comedian and writer, and O’Hara, a Tony Award-winning actress and singer, were recognized for their substantial contributions to the arts. In addition, Lorén M. Spears, the Executive Director of Tomaquag Museum, received the Pell Award for Leadership in the Arts, while Bernadet V. Pitts-Wiley, the Executive Director of Mixed Magic Theatre, was awarded the Pell Award for Excellence in the Arts.
The gala attracted more than 300 attendees, including artists, business leaders, politicians, and community advocates. The event kicked off with a VIP cocktail reception at 6:00 PM, followed by a seated dinner and awards ceremony starting at 7:30 PM. The culinary experience was provided by Russell Morin Catering & Events, ensuring an elegant evening that coincided with the night’s celebrations of achievement in the arts.
The Pell Awards were established in 1997 to honor the legacy of U.S. Senator Claiborne Pell, who was a significant advocate for the arts. Pell sponsored crucial legislation that led to the establishment of the National Endowments for the Arts and Humanities in 1965, thereby laying the groundwork for federal support for cultural activities in the United States. Over the years, the Pell Awards have continued to recognize and celebrate excellence within various artistic fields.
This year’s gala featured event co-chairs Sally Lapides and Joan Sorensen, who played integral roles in organizing this prestigious affair. Their efforts, along with the support of many community members, helped create an inspiring atmosphere, encouraging continued investment in the arts. The funds raised will support Trinity Rep’s various programs that focus on artistic development, educational outreach, and community engagement initiatives.
While the gala primarily honored individual achievements in the arts, it also highlighted upcoming events designed to further promote the vibrant arts scene in Rhode Island. Theatre By The Sea announced it will present the Broadway musical “Waitress” to celebrate its 92 years of operations, showcasing its longstanding commitment to quality performances. Additionally, the popular outdoor dance series “SOUL on the MOVE” is set to return on July 3, 2025, coinciding with Cape Verdean Independence Week, providing community access to cultural celebration through movement.
The Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra is also scheduled to perform “THE MUSIC OF PINK FLOYD” at the Providence Performing Arts Center, offering a unique experience blending classical music with contemporary rock influences. These events emphasize the ongoing dedication to enriching the cultural landscape of Providence and surrounding areas and reflect the collaborative spirit that the Pell Awards embody.
As artists and advocates continue to pave the way for future generations, the Pell Awards Gala serves as a reminder of the impact of creativity and leadership in the arts community. The recognition bestowed upon this year’s honorees exemplifies the potential for transformative experiences that the arts can offer society and reinforces the essential role of support networks in fostering artistic growth.
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Additional Resources
- BroadwayWorld: Pell Awards Honorees
- Wikipedia: Claiborne Pell
- Boston Globe: RI Arts Funding Fight
- Google Search: Pell Awards
- Independent RI: Pell Awards Highlights
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Arts
- PBN: Tina Fey Among Pell Honorees
- Google News: Tina Fey Pell Awards
