Broadway Spotlight to benefit children and adults with special needs

The Mid Island Y JCC in Plainview will host Broadway Spotlight, an annual evening of live Broadway performances benefiting the Adler Center for Children and Adults with Special Needs. 

The event will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 7.

Broadway Spotlight will feature five acclaimed performers, including Caitlin Houlahan, Bella Coppola, Alysia Velez, Adam Kantor, and Michael Maliakel, along with hosting by producer Stephen DeAngelis.

Caitlin Houlahan has appeared on Broadway in “The Girl from the North Country” and “Waitress” and has been featured in television series including “Law & Order: SVU” and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.”

Bella Coppola played a role in the Broadway musical “SMASH” and has performed in “Six on Broadway” as well as “Kinky Boots Off-Broadway.”

Alysia Velez is a Grammy Award winner known for her work in the Broadway revival and national tour of “Into the Woods” and multiple productions of “In the Heights.”

Adam Kantor, an Emmy and Grammy Award winner, has starred in “The Band’s Visit,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Next to Normal,” and “RENT” on Broadway.

Michael Maliakel is best known for his three-year run as the title role in Disney’s “Aladdin on Broadway” and has also starred in “The Great Gatsby.”

Besides storytelling and live musical performances, the event also honors the life of Mary Elizabeth Setti, a beloved member of the Adler Center who brought joy to everyone around her. Her spirit and impact continue to inspire the programs and community supported by the Adler Center.

The event serves as a fundraiser to support the Adler Center for Children and Adults with Special Needs, which provides 80 weekly classes designed to empower children and adults with special needs. Programs focus on developing social and life skills, building self-esteem, and fostering independence in a safe, nurturing environment where participants engage alongside neuro-typical peers.

“The Mid Island Y JCC has a long tradition of hosting events that bring the community together while supporting meaningful causes,” said Rick Lewis, CEO of the Mid Island Y JCC. “Broadway Spotlight continues this mission by combining an unforgettable evening while supporting vital programs like the Adler Center.”

The Mid Island Y JCC is located at 45 Manetto Hill Road in Plainview. Tickets and sponsorships are available. Click here for more information.