10th Anniversary Women in the Arts Luncheon honoring Danai Gurira

Monday, December 10, 2018

Steppenwolf’s 10th Anniversary Women in the Arts Luncheon on December 10, 2018 was a beautiful afternoon with OBIE, Helen Hayes and NAACP Award-winning actor and playwright Danai Gurira. Guests enjoyed lunch while Artistic Director Anna D. Shapiro and Education Manager Jared Bellot joined Danai in a candid conversation about her impactful work as an artist and activist, including personal reflections on the Steppenwolf production of her play Familiar.

Three hundred leaders from Chicago’s civic, corporate and artistic communities came together for the afternoon to raise meaningful funds for Steppenwolf’s education and professional development programs, including Steppenwolf for Young Adults, our nationally recognized education program, the School at Steppenwolf, and the Professional Leadership Programs. Steppenwolf extends sincere thanks to all who contributed to the success of this anniversary occasion.

The Women in the Arts Luncheon began as a way to bring together Chicago’s business and civic communities in celebration of innovators across the performing arts. By uplifting these voices, we explore their unique careers in a personal and intimate way. Previous honorees include ensemble members Joan Allen, Laurie Metcalf and Martha Plimpton, along with Claire Danes, Juliette Lewis, Julianna Margulies, Margo Martindale, Julianne Nicholson, Mary-Louise Parker, Sarah Paulson and Phylicia Rashad.

Co-Chairs

Stephanie B. Smith
Helen Zell

Anniversary Sponsors & Host Committee

Amy Bluhm
Meredith Bluhm-Wolf
Caroline and Keating Crown
Donna La Pietra
Deborah Quazzo
CARI B. SACKS

Mentor Tables hosted by

Boeing
Marlene Breslow-Blitstein
Mary A. Dempsey and Amy Eshleman
Exelon and MARY LUDFORD
Illinois Tool Works Foundation
John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation
Mesirow Financial
Lynn and Amelia Murphy
THe Orlebeke Foundation
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom
United Airlines
Winston & Strawn, LLP and Paul & Lisa McGrady
 

Women in the Arts Photo Gallery