A festive celebration of Vaclav Havel's legacy and the vibrant Czech and Slovak presence in New York City, with Guest of Honor Martina Navratilova.
The theme of this year's Gala is "Bridge for Hope," which aims to promote unity and encourage dialogue in our world at a time of unprecedented polarization and division.
5:30 p.m. Cocktails
7:00 p.m. Dinner
Bohemian National Hall
321 E. 71st St
New York, NY 10021
Tickets start at $500. All proceeds benefit the Vaclav Havel Center’s programs.
HOST
Nicholas D. Lowry, President of Swann Auction Galleries.
HIGHLIGHTS
Presentation of the BBLA Award for Unparalleled Service to the Czech and Slovak Communities to Martina Navratilova.
Presentation of the Vaclav Havel Center's Lifetime Achievement Award to Peter Gabriel, and presentation of the Disturbing the Peace Award to a Courageous Writer at Risk.
PROGRAM
A theatrical experience: be captivated by a powerful performance by the Belarus Free Theatre, presenting an excerpt from their upcoming play "KS6 - Small Forward," set to debut at La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club in fall. Watch as Belarusian dissident basketball star Katsiaryna Snytsina brings her unique talent to the stage.
Flavors of Czech cuisine: let your taste buds be transported to the heart of Prague with a selection of traditional Czech dishes that promise to delight and satisfy.
Exclusive exhibition: arrive early to explore "The Life and Legacy of Václav Havel: From Dissident to President," an exclusive exhibition organized in collaboration with the Czech Center New York.
Silent auction: participate in our silent auction featuring unique items and experiences you will not find anywhere else. All proceeds support the Vaclav Havel Center programs.
This event is organized by BBLA and the Vaclav Havel Center.
Host Committee
(list in formation)
Joseph Balaz
Elliot Berke
David Dusek
Martina Forman
Stephen B. Heintz and Lise Stone
Katya Heller
Charlotta Kotik
William and Wendy Luers
Martin Palous
Martin and Helena Plavec
Bohdan Pomahac and Hana Augustinova
Paulina Porizkova
Andrew H. Schapiro and Tamar Newberger
John Shattuck and Ellen Hume
Bill Shipsey
Petr Simunek
Peter Sis
Jack and Patricia Stack
Craig and Dorothy Stapleton
Rose Styron
Salil Tripathi
Marilyn Wyatt