Broadway Comes To Plainview For Night Of Music And Meaning, Supporting Special Needs Program

PLAINVIEW, NY — Plainview's Mid Island Y JCC will host Broadway Spotlight, an annual fundraiser to support the Adler Center, on Thursday.

The Adler Center supports children and adults with special needs by providing 80 weekly programs that focus on building life skills, independence, and social development.

The event will honor the life of Mary Elizabeth Setti, who was a member of the Adler Center and whose "impact continues to shape the program today," Mid Island Y JCC said.

May 7th's fundraiser will feature performances by five Broadway stars, as well as cocktails, light bites, and a dessert reception.

The five Broadway stars are as follows:

• Caitlin Houlahan – She was on Broadway in The Girl from the North Country and Waitress. She has been featured on television, including Law & Order: SVU and The
  Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.
• Bella Coppola – She played a role in the Broadway musical SMASH and has performed in Six on Broadway, as well as Kinky Boots Off-Broadway.
• Alysia Velez — 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, who 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.

Director of The Adler Center Sharon Hanover said the Broadway Spotlight is especially meaningful to the Adler Center because it reflects their mission of using the arts to build expression, confidence, and connection.

"It gives our participants the opportunity to perform alongside Broadway talent, highlighting how creative programming strengthens skills, independence, and self-esteem while fostering inclusion and a strong sense of community," she said.

Chief Development Officer Michele Posner said these performers will come together in support of the Adler Center's mission.

"The audience will have the opportunity to experience some of Broadway's brightest stars, currently captivating audiences in many of the shows we all know and love," she said. "The evening promises a perfect balance of laughter, heartfelt emotion, and truly unforgettable moments."

The show will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Mid Island Y JCC at 45 Manetto Hill Road in Plainview. General admission tickets can be bought online for $118.