All of Broadway gathers to honor legends Carol Channing, Tommy Tune and James Earl Jones.

The non-profit American Theatre Wing, best known as the creator of the Tony Awards, which it presents annually with the League of American Theatres and Producers honored Carol Channing, Tommy Tune, and James Earl Jones at Cipriani at 42nd Street on June 4th. In keeping with its theatrical tradition, even the evening’s programs were Playbills.

It seemed like everyone who is anyone on Broadway turned out for this event. Josh Strickland who played Tarzan and Jenn Gambatese who played Jane in "Tarzan" on Broadway posed for the cameras as if they were still in love. Rosemary Harris, who is also a Broadway queen but is probably better known to the younger generation as the grandmother in "Spiderman," looked regal with her hair pulled back. Roger Berlind who has produced countless musicals and plays that include "Guys and Dolls" and "Ain’t Misbehavin’" was present with co-producer Jane Bergere busy promoting their new show, "Curtains." Morley Safer of "60 Minutes" wouldn’t tell me which is his favorite show this year, but claimed he loves them all. His wife is a member of the League who votes for the Tonys. My employer Conde Nast should also be happy to know that Jon Wilner, producer of "Mark & Mabel" in London, is no longer traumatized by the temporary elevator that fell on his office the night before his opening night of "An Evening with Jerry Herman" when the Conde Nast building was being built. But he still likes talking about it. My friend Mallory Factor, financier and founder of the Free Enterprise Fund and the Monday Meetings, is also a voting member. As an ardent supporter of the arts, the quid pro quo he received was a small part in a Broadway musical. Ask him about it and ye shall hear.

I had a moment to speak to Carol Channing who was adorned in a stunning white pantsuit. She said her designer is Tadashi (just one name like Madonna) who gave her a personal fitting. She was first introduced to him through a friend when she needed an emergency red outfit for another stage appearance. She’s been hooked ever since. I love her sense of humor because she laughed when I assured her that she didn’t look lesbian in that outfit. For someone who has performed "Hello Dolly" 5437 times, it is a miracle that she still has a voice. Congratulations Carol for your lifetime of achievement!

Ann Lee

6/5/07