Pittsburgh Playhouse Marks Return of STARMAKERS Gala With Previews of Both ASCEND and the 2025-26 Season Thursday, April 17, 2025
After nearly 15 years, the beloved STARMAKERS Gala has returned to Pittsburgh. The Point Park University event celebrates the Pittsburgh Playhouse’s enduring legacy in Pittsburgh and sets the stage for the next era of groundbreaking performances and artistic excellence.
This year’s gala, set for Friday, April 25, is hosted by Mikey Hood and David Highfield from KDKA’s “Pittsburgh Today Live.”
“The STARMAKERS Gala has a long, rich history as one of Point Park’s most popular and exciting events, so I am thrilled that we have been able to bring it back,” said Dr. Chris W. Brussalis, president of Point Park. “Being able to use our state-of-the-art Pittsburgh Playhouse allows us to make this event bigger and better than ever.”
Special guests and nationally renowned artists will take the stage for an unforgettable night of artistry and festivity. Guests will get an exclusive first look at “ASCEND,” the Playhouse’s new, breathtaking production that will run through May 18, as well as an exciting preview of the Playhouse’s 2025-26 season. Throughout the evening, guests can take part in a silent auction featuring special items and experiences while enjoying dinner on the stage of the PNC Theatre. The night will also include dancing and dessert, as STARMAKERS will boast the city’s largest cookie table.
“The return of the Gala has been met with a lot of buzz and excitement, and we are grateful for that,” said Kiesha Lalama, M.F.A., interim dean, School of Theatre, Film and Animation, and executive producer of the Pittsburgh Playhouse. “This event sets the stage for the next era of groundbreaking performances and artistic excellence as it supports the Playhouse and our Conservatory of Performing Arts.”
Being honored at this year’s event are Anne Lewis, board chair of Oxford Development Co., and former chair of Point Park’s Board of Trustees, and Clifford Rowe, executive chairman of P.J. Dick.
“Both Anne and Cliff have not only been huge supporters of Point Park and our Playhouse but also of the entire Pittsburgh region,” Brussalis said.
Dr. Lisa M. Cibik, chair of the Point Park Board of Trustees, and Jimmy Miller, a member of the Board of Trustees, are honorary co-chairs of the STARMAKERS Gala.
“The outpouring of support for the return of STARMAKERS has been truly inspiring. We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our individual and corporate sponsors, whose commitment has helped make this beloved event a reality once again. Thanks to the backing of the Pittsburgh community, we are proud to bring the Gala back — bigger and better than ever.”
There are a limited number of Encore Experience tickets available to purchase online.
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