The African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) honored the brilliance, creativity, and cultural impact of theater at its 4th Annual AAFCA Goes to Broadway Awards Luncheon, held on October 13 at Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse in New York City’s Theater District. The event paid tribute to artists and visionaries whose work continues to shape the landscape of Broadway and amplify diverse voices on and off the stage.
Arriving at a record-breaking time for Broadway, the celebration followed a historic 2024–2025 season, which grossed $1.9 billion in box office revenue and drew more than 14 million theatergoers, making it the highest-grossing season in Broadway history. The year marked the powerful returns of icons such as Audra McDonald and Denzel Washington, alongside a new wave of productions that reflected Broadway’s continued influence on both culture and commerce.
This year’s honorees embodied excellence across performance, production, and promotion:
- Kara Young – Spotlight Award
- Brian Moreland – Producers Award
- Kecia Lewis – Beacon Award
- Linda Stewart – Salute to Excellence Award
“Each of this year’s honorees represents a different but vital force on Broadway,” said Gil Robertson IV, AAFCA president and co-founder. “From Kara Young’s powerful performances to Brian Moreland’s groundbreaking productions, Kecia Lewis’ inspiring artistry, and Linda Stewart’s strategic brilliance behind the scenes, their collective influence ensures that Broadway continues to thrive as a home for diverse voices and storytelling.”
Producer Brian Moreland has redefined modern Broadway producing with boundary-pushing projects, most recently the record-breaking revival of Othello starring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal. Actress Kara Young, a two-time Tony Award winner, made history as the first Black actress to earn four consecutive Tony nominations for Best Featured Actress in a Play. Kecia Lewis, known for unforgettable performances in Once on This Island, Leap of Faith, and Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen, won a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. Behind the curtain, Linda Stewart has been instrumental in promoting landmark productions such as Ain’t Too Proud, The Color Purple, Dreamgirls, and Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen.