McCarter Theatre Center to honor Emily Mann at annual gala

For three decades, Emily Mann helped shape McCarter Theatre Center into one of the nation’s leading regional theaters while anchoring it as a cultural cornerstone of Princeton. This summer, the theater will honor her legacy during its annual gala, recognizing the artistic director whose leadership transformed both the institution and the local arts landscape.

The 2026 McCarter Gala will be held on Friday, June 12 at the Lewis Arts Complex. The event is expected to draw more than 300 supporters, arts patrons, and civic leaders from across the region for an evening of performances, dining, and fundraising in support of the theater’s artistic and educational programs.

During the gala, Mann will receive the inaugural Roger S. Berlind Award, named for the late Broadway producer and longtime McCarter champion. The award recognizes individuals whose leadership and vision have helped create lasting opportunities for artists and audiences.

Mann served as McCarter’s artistic director and resident playwright for 30 years, guiding the Princeton institution through a period of significant artistic growth and national recognition. A Tony Award–nominated director and playwright, she became known for championing new work and bringing contemporary voices to regional theater while maintaining strong ties to the Princeton community.

During her tenure, Mann wrote 15 plays and adaptations and directed more than 50 productions at McCarter. She also oversaw the production of roughly 180 plays and musicals, helping establish the theater as a launching ground for works that later moved to Broadway and other major stages. Under her leadership, McCarter Theatre Center received the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre, one of the highest honors for nonprofit performing arts organizations in the United States.

Beyond productions on stage, Mann emphasized education and community engagement, expanding programs designed to introduce students and first-time audiences to live theater. Her approach positioned McCarter not only as a professional theater but also as a cultural gathering place for Princeton and surrounding communities.

Colleagues have often credited Mann with fostering an environment that encouraged collaboration between playwrights, actors, and directors while supporting the development of new stories and emerging artists. Her work helped strengthen McCarter’s identity as both a regional institution and a nationally influential arts organization.

Proceeds from the June gala will support McCarter’s performances, education initiatives, and efforts to broaden access to the arts by reducing financial and other barriers for community members.

The evening will include specialty cocktails, a three-course dinner, live entertainment, and dancing. For more information and tickets, visit the McCarter Theatre website.