The New York Landmarks Conservancy brought its annual Living Landmarks Celebration to The Plaza this November. The room filled with cultural, civic, and philanthropic figures who came together for an evening that felt unmistakably New York. This year’s honourees were recognised for shaping the city’s artistic identity and strengthening the spirit that defines it.
Peg Breen, President of the Conservancy, noted that the group reflected the city’s depth of talent and its wide creative reach.
Bonnie Comley and Stewart F. Lane opened the night with an a cappella take on I Want To Be A Producer from the Mel Brooks musical. Their influence runs deep across the theatre world through their work as producers, authors, and founders of BroadwayHD. Their push to expand access to stage productions worldwide aligns with the Conservancy’s goal of protecting the cultural fabric of New York. Their philanthropy across education, the arts, and historic preservation further anchors them in the city’s creative life.
This year’s roster featured leaders across design, film, activism, and community work. Aerin Lauder was acknowledged for her design vision and her continued role in shaping modern interpretations of New York’s classic style. Kenneth Lonergan and Mark Ruffalo were recognised together for their creative achievements and the advocacy work that has given New Yorkers a louder voice in national conversations. Cynthia Wainwright and Steve Berger were highlighted for their long-standing philanthropy, and Darren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation, was honoured for his leadership in building equity-focused initiatives.
Past honourees also returned, including Stephen S. Lash, who served as Master of Ceremonies. Their presence added a sense of continuity to an event built around stewardship, legacy, and care for a city that never stops evolving.
New York is always changing, yet its identity rests on what is protected and passed on. The 2025 Living Landmarks remind the city that preservation is more than looking back. It strengthens the future by keeping art, architecture, and history alive for the generations that follow.
Photos by Noel Sutherland and James Salzano:
- First photo: Stewart F. Lane and Bonnie Comley performing at the Living Landmarks Gala with host Stephen Lash
- Second photo: Lloyd P. Zuckerberg, Peg Breen, Stephen Lash
- Third photo: Kenneth Lonergan, Bonnie Comley, Stewart F. Lane, Steve Berger, Cynthhia Wainwright, Aerin Lauder Living Landmarks Honorees
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