The African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) is set to host its third annual AAFCA Goes to Broadway luncheon, an event dedicated to celebrating the powerful connection between Broadway and Hollywood, particularly the influence of Black performers and creatives. Scheduled for October 14, 2024, the luncheon will take place at Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse in the heart of New York City’s Theater District, bringing together a vibrant group of artists, industry leaders, and advocates.
This year, AAFCA shines a spotlight on the critical role Broadway has played in shaping some of the most prominent Black talent in film and television. From actors to playwrights and choreographers, Broadway remains a vital training ground and launching pad for those who transition into Hollywood’s bright lights. With its emphasis on honoring both emerging and established talent, AAFCA Goes to Broadway has become a celebrated event within the entertainment industry, uniting those who have made their mark on stage and screen alike.
Honoring Broadway’s Finest
The 2024 luncheon will honor a remarkable group of artists whose careers underscore the importance of Broadway as a foundation for success in the broader entertainment industry. Among this year’s honorees are:
- John Earl Jelks, who is set to receive the Distinguished Actor Award. Jelks, a veteran stage performer, is also making waves in film, with Oscar buzz surrounding his role in the upcoming movie Exhibiting Forgiveness. His decades-long career on Broadway has established him as a formidable talent in both theater and film.
- James Monroe Iglehart, the Tony Award-winning actor best known for his breakout role as the Genie in Aladdin, will be recognized with the Beacon Award for his magnetic presence in theater and television. Iglehart’s performance in the Broadway-bound musical Louis Armstrong: A Wonderful World highlights his continued dominance in live performance.
- Camille A. Brown, a visionary choreographer for Hell’s Kitchen, and Nikiya Mathis, a pioneering hair designer, will receive the Salute to Excellence Award. Both women have made significant contributions to enhancing Black representation on Broadway, with their work helping to create a space where Black stories are authentically told and celebrated.
- Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, the Tony Award-winning playwright known for his sharp, provocative works such as Appropriate, will be honored with the Vanguard Award. His bold storytelling and innovative approach have made him a major force in contemporary theater.
The Legacy of Broadway and Black Talent
“Broadway has long been a training ground for the greatest voices in entertainment,” said Gil Robertson IV, President and Co-Founder of AAFCA. “The energy and creativity on stage feed into the performances we see on screen, and AAFCA is proud to honor the incredible contributions of Black artists who have enriched both industries.”
Beyond its entertainment value, Broadway has been a space for advocacy and change, particularly for Black artists who have fought to tell authentic stories. AAFCA Goes to Broadway honors this legacy by recognizing the individuals who are paving the way for future generations, both in front of and behind the curtain.
The Event
The luncheon, known for its intimate and celebratory atmosphere, will bring together a select group of Broadway’s most prominent figures, alongside Hollywood stars and media professionals. As the entertainment industry continues to shift and evolve, AAFCA’s celebration of the intersection between Broadway and film highlights the essential role that live theater plays in the broader cultural landscape.
Sponsors such as Morgan Stanley, Comcast, and Finn Partners will once again lend their support to this important event, ensuring that the legacy of Black talent on Broadway is celebrated in a grand fashion. With a growing spotlight on Black storytelling, AAFCA’s luncheon is more relevant than ever, reaffirming the bond between Broadway and Hollywood and amplifying the voices that continue to shape both industries.
As AAFCA Goes to Broadway enters its third year, it cements itself as a must-attend event for those who care about the intersection of theater, film, and Black excellence.