Bay Street Theater’s 33rd Annual Summer Gala: Icons Of Impact

On Saturday, July 12, Bay Street Theater welcomed over 300 guests to its 33rd Annual Summer Gala: Icons of Impact, an unforgettable evening celebrating three remarkable women — supermodel and arts advocate Christie Brinkley, fashion innovator and wellness leader Donna Karan, and East End philanthropist Mala Sander.

The evening began with an elegant dinner at Le Bilboquet, followed by a lively and heartfelt program at Bay Street Theater. Actor and comedian Richard Kind served as emcee, bringing warmth and sharp wit as he guided the evening’s tributes and performances.

Custom-written musical numbers honored each of the Icons of Impact. Christie Brinkley and Donna Karan both accepted their awards, the latter reflecting on her lifelong commitment to creativity and healing, while Mala Sander expressed gratitude for the opportunity to support the arts in her own community.

The live auction featured a lineup of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including a private Parisian getaway, sold-out house seats to Hamilton with a backstage meet-and-greet with Leslie Odom, Jr., and a private yacht cruise on Gardiner’s Bay. The auction was conducted by professional auctioneer Letitia Frye, with Richard Kind joining in for comedic commentary that had the audience engaged and energized.

Guests also had the chance to purchase Tiffany Boxes—each one offering a chance to win a $1,000 Tiffany gift certificate—a glamorous tradition that returned by popular demand. Among the many in attendance were Alexa Ray Joel, Jill Rapaport, and Max Greenfield.

All proceeds from the event support Bay Street Theater’s educational and accessibility initiatives, including Pay What You Can Nights, Free Student Sundays, and the Literature Live! program, which brings free, professional theater to over 3,000 students annually.

Bay Street Theater is a year-round, not-for-profit professional theater that works to innovate, educate, and entertain through the performing arts. It remains a vibrant and creative hub for artists, audiences, and students of all ages across the East End.