Mercy Home President Fr. Scott Donahue was recognized for his impact on Chicago by the Porchlight Music Theater at its special Icons Gala, held at the Atheneum Theater in September.
The event celebrates a notable artist who has made an indelible contribution to American entertainment through the theater arts while also recognizing a class of community “Scene Changers.” The Scene Changers award honors leaders from non-profit and for-profit organizations who have made a significant impact on the business, civic and cultural life of Chicago. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle presented the awards to each of the eight Scene Changer honorees.
“I was proud to accept this award on behalf of my talented and dedicated coworkers,” Fr. Donahue said. “In their work with children and families, they enhance and change lives for so many in our city, and in doing so, they help bring positive change to Chicago.”
The centerpiece of this year’s gala was a celebration of the career of Broadway legend Ben Vereen, whose 60-year career earned him such credits as Pippin, Wicked, Fosse, I’m Not Rappaport, Hair, Jesus Christ Superstar, Grind, Jelly’s Last Jam, and A Christmas Carol.
Vereen appeared via videoconference from Romania, where he is shooting a mini-series. Conducting the live interview from the Atheneum stage was the evening’s Luminary Award recipient, WGN political analyst and television and radio host Paul Lisnek. The evening also included live stage performances highlighting Vereen’s career by talented young veterans of past Porchlight productions.
