Ballet Hispánico will honor Latin music superstars Emilio & Gloria Estefan with the Nuestra Inspiración Award; legendary fashion designer Carolina Herrera with the Toda Una Vida Award; and businessman and community activist Marcos Torres with the Civic Inspiration Award; at its annual CARNAVAL Gala on Monday, May 7, 2018 at The Plaza Hotel’s Grand Ballroom. Cocktails begin at 6:30pm and dinner and dancing commence at 7:30pm. Proceeds, which totaled over $1.1 million last year, benefit the creation of new choreographic works, much needed scholarships for young people, and immersive dance programs for communities around the world.

Carolina Herrera

“Ballet Hispánico is deeply honored to celebrate four of the most influential Latino leaders of our time,” said Board Chair Kate Lear. “Pioneers in their respective fields, these individuals are shining examples of the power of the immigrant experience. Their contributions have literally changed the world.”

“As an organization that was founded to give voice to the Latino diaspora, Ballet Hispánico is thrilled to celebrate these four beacons of grace, strength and abundant talent from our community” said Eduardo Vilaro Artistic Director and CEO.

Ballet Hispánico’s annual CARNAVAL Gala, is a celebration of the impactful voices of the Latino world-an exciting and fitting way to showcase the resilience and unparalleled vision of one of America’s cultural gems. Attended by more than 500 of New York’s most influential civic leaders, philanthropists, and artists, the evening is filled with live Latin music and thrilling performances by the Ballet Hispánico Company and students of the School of Dance.

Marcos Torres

CARNAVAL Gala celebrates Ballet Hispánico’s impact in communities across the nation with a performance by aspiring young dancers from the New Orleans Ballet Association. Ballet Hispánico has been supporting young people in New Orleans for over two decades with access to hands on pre-professional training. Artistic Director & CEO Eduardo Vilaro set his work Danzon, a popular piece in Ballet Hispánico’s repertory, with the NOBA students during a recent engagement in New Orleans.

This year’s Gala Chairs are Jody and John Arnhold, Richard Feldman, Kate Lear and Jonathan LaPook, David Pérez and Milena Alberti, and Rita E. Rodriguez.

Attire for the event is festive black tie. To purchase tickets, a table, a journal advertisement, or for more information, please contact Lorraine LaHuta at (212) 362-6710, ext. 28 or llahuta@ballethispanico.org, or visit www.BHGala.org.