Broadway Backwards marked its 20th anniversary with a powerhouse evening of show-stopping performances, soul-stirring LGBTQ+ storytelling and record-breaking fundraising on March 23, 2026, at the Gershwin Theatre. The evening transformed beloved songs from the Broadway canon into bold, queer anthems that celebrate love, identity and community.
The show raised a record-shattering $1,223,681 to benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center (The Center) in New York City. The one-night-only event was produced by Broadway Cares.
Jenn Colella hosted the sold-out evening, joyously welcoming returning guests while ushering in a new generation of Broadway Backwards attendees. Colella led a cast of more than 100 performers and a 13-piece orchestra in the event’s 20th anniversary edition.