Harlem Stage will host its 2026 Renaissance Gala on Monday, May 18, at the Rainbow Room.
The event will inaugurate the Agnes Gund Medal of Visionary Philanthropy, established to recognize Agnes “Aggie” Gund’s legacy of creative leadership and social impact. Catherine Gund will accept the medal on her mother’s behalf.
The evening will also recognize the 2026 honorees: Harlem Stage Board President Courtney Lee-Mitchell and Fall of Freedom.
“Inaugurating the Agnes Gund Medal of Visionary Philanthropy affirms the profound impact that courageous cultural leadership can have on our society,” said Dr. Indira Etwaroo, CEO and artistic director of Harlem Stage. “We are especially honored to celebrate Courtney Lee-Mitchell, whose steadfast leadership and commitment to Harlem Stage have been a source of strength, and Fall of Freedom, whose work calls us to confront history with honesty and purpose.”
The program features performances by actress and vocalist Pauletta Washington, American Ballet Theatre principal dancer Calvin Royal III and concert pianist Jacek Mysinski.
The event will also include an excerpt from Freedom Riders: A Journey with No End in Sight. The segment will feature a live musical score performed by pianist Arden Altino, violinist Daniel Bernard Roumain and Grammy-nominated bassist Divinity Roxx, the former musical director for Beyoncé.