On November 8th, Alice Tully Hall in New York City was the setting for the 2010 Mayor’s Awards Ceremony for Arts and Culture. This marked the completion of the massive 21 month renovation initiative that took place at the Hall in Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. It was partially funded by the city and the result of a monumental redevelopment plan.
The stage was shared by the honorable Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Academy Award-winner Meryl Streep. The team served as dual presenters.
Photo Credit: George Whylie
It was a celebration of the individuals and organizations who contribute so much to the vitality of the city’s art and cultural scene. Each year their efforts generate more than $11 billion in annual economic activity.
The awards were first created over 34 years ago and presented annually until 1994 when they ceased for a period of time. Once Mayor Bloomberg came into office in 2004, he felt it would be beneficial to bring back the awards with the assistance of the Cultural Affairs Advisory Commission. This Commission embodies the everlasting concept of culture and diversity.
This star-studded evening was all about the 2010 NYC Handel Medallion, the highest award for achievement in the arts. The Medallion was established in 1959 by Mayor Robert F. Wagner and named for composer George Frideric Handel (1685-1759). The sole purpose of the accolade was to honor outstanding achievement in the fields of art and music. This inception year of 1959 commemorated the 200th anniversary of Handel’s death. Unforgettable and multi-talented past recipients include Lena Horne and Neil Simon who were both New York City natives.
This year’s presentation was spectacular. The excitement in the hall was fueled by creativity and fervor.
This year’s presentation was spectacular. Pure Fame Media-FR TV was there to take part in the event. The excitement in the hall was fueled by creativity and fervor.
The coveted Handel Medallion was presented to world-renowned American dancer and choreographer, Judith Jamison. Judith has been artistic director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater for two decades. She is most recognized as a member of Times 2009 list of the World’s 100 Most Influential People and recently she was recognized by First Lady Michelle Obama.
Other Mayor’s awards of the evening went to Amy Fischetti-Boncardo, Bill Cunningham, Brooklyn Community Foundation, Deborah Effinger and Sandy Ground Historical Society.
There were a diverse set of live performances from actors to dancers to musicians. A reception immediately followed. Flowers were donated by Van Wyck and Van Wyck. A generous supporter of the event was none other than Estee Lauder Companies, Inc.
New York City is a city fired by artistic passion and with award presentations of this caliber, there is no doubt that the city will remain a destination for the world to experience arts and culture at its very highest and best quality.
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