On Saturday, May 2, 2026, Dallas Theater Center will host CENTERSTAGE 42 at the Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre in the Dallas Arts District.
The evening will begin with a cocktail reception, followed by a seated dinner, and the presentation of the 2026 Linda and Bill Custard Award to Larry Angelilli. The Custard Award, the most prestigious honor given by DTC, celebrates a board member, staff member, artist, community representative, or organization whose extraordinary, distinguished, and long-standing service has had a meaningful impact on the theater. Larry's more than three decades of leadership, stewardship, and advocacy for the arts have helped strengthen cultural institutions across Dallas, including Dallas Theater Center.
The celebration continues with an exciting raffle and auction. With only four tables still available, Michael Urie, who was originally slated to appear for the event, had to withdraw his participation due to scheduling conflicts associated with his role in TV’s “Shrinking” series.
On the other hand, Michael’s regrets have been replaced with great news. DFW native gal/DTC Alum Tiffany Mann will be the event headliner. She is considered “one of New York City’s premier Broadway talents,” having originated the role of Jenna Rolan in “Be More Chill” and appearing in “Waitress The Musical” on Broadway. She has also been recognized for her work in “Jelly’s Last Jam” and “Ragtime” at New York City Center Encores! and the Off-Broadway premiere of “Oh Happy Day!” at The Public Theater.
As an added treat, Bri Woods and Grammy- and Emmy-winning Akron Watson, who both just yesterday wrapped up starring in DTC’s “Ragtime,” will be on stage for the fundraiser, too. Not only did Bri earn her MFA for Acting from SMU Meadows School Of The Arts, this past season she was the Linda and Bill Custard Actor in the Diane and Hal Brierley Resident Acting Company. Akron has starred in “The Color Purple,” “Hamilton” and “The Play That Goes Wrong” on Broadway.
The TONY-AWARD-winning Dallas Theater Center advances its nonprofit mission by producing innovative and impactful theater that enriches both the Dallas community and the American theater at large. As DTC welcomes Jaime Castañeda as its new Enloe/Rose Artistic Director, the organization enters an exciting new chapter rooted in artistic excellence, creative growth, and community connection.
Funds raised from CENTERSTAGE support DTC's productions as well as its ongoing educational and community-focused programs.
For any questions about CENTERSTAGE or Dallas Theater Center, please contact Robin Plata, Chief Relationship Officer at Robin.Plata@
