Norm Lewis to Receive Wharton Arts Lifetime Achievement Award in 2025

Renowned actor and baritone Norm Lewis is set to receive the 2025 Wharton Arts Lifetime Achievement Award at the organization's Annual Gala on April 10, 2025. This prestigious accolade recognizes individuals who have made outstanding artistic contributions to the performing arts throughout their careers and serve as inspirational figures for Wharton Arts students.

Lewis, an Emmy, Grammy, Tony, and SAG Award nominee, has made significant strides in the world of theater and music. His groundbreaking role as the first Black actor to portray the Phantom in Broadway's 'The Phantom of the Opera' in 2014 marked a pivotal moment in theater history. Lewis's extensive repertoire includes starring roles in productions such as 'The Gershwins' Porgy & Bess' and most recently, the national tour of the Tony Award-winning 'A Soldier's Play.'

The recognition of Lewis by Wharton Arts underscores the importance of diversity and representation in the performing arts. As a founding member of Black Theatre United, Lewis has been instrumental in promoting equity and inclusion in the theater community. This award not only celebrates his artistic achievements but also acknowledges his role in paving the way for future generations of performers of color.

Alongside Lewis, the 2025 Wharton Arts Education Award will be presented to Tricia Tunstall, a prominent advocate for high-quality music education. Tunstall's work, including her books on the global El Sistema movement, highlights the transformative power of music education in social change and youth development.

The Annual Gala, to be held at the Westmount Country Club in Woodland Park, NJ, will feature student performances and a live auction. This event serves as a crucial fundraiser for Wharton Arts, New Jersey's largest independent non-profit community performing arts education center, which provides accessible arts education to nearly 2,000 students across various programs.

Wharton Arts' commitment to making performing arts education accessible to all, regardless of financial means, is reflected in their need-based scholarship programs. The organization's diverse offerings, including the New Jersey Youth Chorus, New Jersey Youth Symphony, Paterson Music Project, and Wharton Performing Arts School, provide comprehensive musical education and performance opportunities for students of all ages and abilities.

The honoring of Norm Lewis and Tricia Tunstall at this gala event highlights the vital role of arts education in fostering personal growth, building inclusive communities, and inspiring the next generation of artists. It also emphasizes the ongoing need for support and recognition of programs that make the arts accessible to all, potentially shaping future leaders in the performing arts world.