Gayle King, Al Roker and More Celebrate 60 Years of Harlem School of the Arts With ‘Bridgerton’ Themed Charity Gala, $2.5 Million Raised

Gayle King and Al Roker were among the star-studded guests at The Harlem School of the Arts 60th anniversary on Monday. The event, held at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City, featured a “Bridgerton” theme, complete with performances, decorations and dress code.

At the event, King, who was recently named among this year’s Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition cover models, fashioned a one-shoulder floral gown with an abstract design of flowers in shades of purple and pink cascading down the fabric. The floral frock was a take on the evening’s “Bridgerton” theme. The Netflix series’ costumes prominently feature regency era designs with florals and springtime hues.

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Along with attendees in an array of regencycore dress, the gala also featured student performances, which were “Bridgerton” themed, as well. Attendees were treated to an immersive experience, with poetry readings, singing and instrumental performances. Keeping with the theme, students also wore “Bridgerton” style costumes, including voluminous gowns and wigs.

Prior to the evening’s festivities inside the Ziegfeld Ballroom, a bevy of stars and celebrities appeared on the red carpet for photos. Along with King and Roker, stars like “Today” show co-host Sheinelle Jones, Grammy winner Mary J. Blige, Oscar-winner Questlove and more appeared on the red carpet. Roker, Deborah Roberts, Jennifer Jones Austin, Nicole Avant were among the HSA honorees. It was a full circle moment for Avant, whose parents, philanthropists Clarence and Jacqueline Avant, were posthumously honored.

During the evening, the Harlem School of the Arts raised $200,000, which brought charitable efforts to a grand total to $2.5 million. The sum was a record-breaking achievement for The Harlem School of the Arts. The event also paid tribute to the school’s founder Dorothy Maynor, a trailblazer who pioneered arts education in Harlem.

Harlem School of the Arts is a New York City and national cultural institution, with a mission to provide children and young adults with comprehensive training in dance, music, theater, and visual arts. The school was founded in 1964. Over the last 60 years, HSA has been committed to nurturing artistic talent and encouraging the next generation of cultural leaders.

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