Michael Arden chatted on the red carpet of the “Only Make Believe” GALA, which took place on Monday, October 13th at the Schubert Theatre in New York City.
A multi-Tony Award winner, Arden is known for directing such theatrical productions as “Parade” and “Maybe Happy Ending.”
Background on ‘Only Make Believe’
“Only Make Believe” creates interactive theatre experiences directly with children in hospitals, special education schools, and care facilities; moreover, it inspires joy and imagination. Its professional actors engage children with medically fragile conditions and developmental disabilities, fostering vital social and emotional growth.
“I am so excited to be here,” Arden exclaimed. “It is such an amazing cause, and I am so happy to celebrate Anna Wintour tonight.”
Speaking of Dame Anna Wintour, she was bestowed the 2025 “James Hammerstein Award” at the “Only Make Believe” GALA.
Arden on the significance of the ‘Only Make Believe’ event and cause
On the importance of this event and this cause, Arden said, “We have a responsibility as artists to give back through our art.”
“Art has the ability to heal, and I think it’s not a light responsibility,” Arden admitted.
“So, I am so glad that this organization (Only Make Believe) exists, and it flows and funnels art and talent into the eyes, ears and soul of the people who need it the most,” he elaborated.
For more information on “Only Make Believe,” visit its official homepage.
Arden on his multiple Tony wins
Throughout his respected career in theater, Arden has won multiple Tony Awards for directing “Maybe Happy Ending” and “Parade.”
On his “Maybe Happy Ending” Tony wins, Arden said, “It was amazing! To be celebrated this season, and for a show that I love so, so much is really incredible!”
For Arden, “Parade” is the gift that keeps on giving. “Our tour for ‘Parade’ just closed, so it is kind of amazing that we got a chance to do that show for so long,” he noted.
Arden defines success
Regarding his definition of success, Arden said, “Success, to me, means feeling like you have made a mark, and that you’ve changed someone’s opinion and that you’ve inspired someone to do something that they might not have done.”
“Hopefully, that action is a butterfly effect, and inspires other people,” he added.
To learn more about Michael Arden, follow him on Instagram.
