On Monday, April 14th, Academy Award winner Ariana DeBose was a part of the 2025 “Renaissance GALA” at West Bank Café, which celebrated the re-opening of the Laurie Beechman Theatre in New York.
DeBose won the 2022 Academy Award for “Best Supporting Actress” for her portrayal of Anita in the 2021 adaptation of the musical drama “West Side Story,” which was directed by Steven Spielberg.
DeBose on the importance of the Laurie Beechman Theatre
On the significance of the Laurie Beechman Theatre, DeBose remarked, “This venue is a very special place for me. I sang at the Laurie Beechman Theatre, and it was the first time I sang anywhere in New York City.”
“Also, when I first moved, I came to the Laurie Beechman Theatre, and I started trying out new material, in order to help get my confidence up as a vocalist,” she added.
DeBose on Tom and Michael D’Angora
DeBose praised Tony-nominated Broadway producers Tom and Michael D’Angora, who are the new owners of the West Bank Café and the Laurie Beechman Theatre. “Tom and Michael are so wonderful,” she exclaimed. “It is so great that they took over this special venue,” she said, prior to thanking them for inviting them at this event.
DeBose’s tribute to Chita Rivera at the 2024 Tony Awards
This journalist also complimented Ariana DeBose for her Chita Rivera tribute at the 2024 Tony Awards, which DeBose hosted. “Thank you,” DeBose said, effusively.
In the Tony Awards’ Chita tribute segment, DeBose dressed up in a purple dress, and performed choreography from “West Side Story,” and stated that she would not be here without Chita blazing the trail for all that follow.” “Chita, we will always love you,” DeBose said.
The late Rivera originated the role of Anita in “West Side Story” when it originally premiered on Broadway back in 1957.
DeBose performs ‘Blues in the Night’ at the Laurie Beechman Theatre
At the re-opening of the Laurie Beechman Theatre, DeBose also delivered a powerhouse, expressive rendition of Johnny Mercer’s “Blues in the Night,” which stole the show, and earned her tremendous applause.
The Oscar winner took her time and pulled off a controlled and resonant version of the classic tune, which showcased her ability to nail the high notes.
To learn more about Ariana DeBose, follow her on Instagram.
