On Monday, June 1, Red Bull Theater honored John Lithgow with the Matador Award for Achievement in Classical Theater, and Joanna Cole, a major supporter of Red Bull Theater since 2005, with the George Mayer Award for Extraordinary Service to Classical Theater at The Running of the Red Bulls Gala Benefit. The evening was held at The Bowery Hotel (335 Bowery). Check out photos below!
Hosted by Santino Fontana, the evening featured special performances by Norbert Leo Butz and Nikki Renée Daniels, along with additional surprises. Guests, including Michael Emerson, Laila Robins, Hamish Linklater, Lily Rabe, Reg Rogers, Grantham Coleman, Mary Testa, Robert Cuccioli, Luis Quintero, Miriam Silverman and Mark Linn Baker, enjoyed dining, a silent auction, and the opportunity to gather with the Red Bull Theater family of artists and supporters.
2026 Theater Fans’ Choice Awards – Live Stats
Best Lead Performer in a Musical – Top 3
1.
LJ Benet – The Lost Boys, A New Musical
16.3% of votes
2.
Joshua Henry – Ragtime
15.9% of votes
3.
Marla Mindelle – Titanique
9.1% of votes

















