Tony winner Jennifer Holliday performs “I Am What I Am” at Broadway Backwards 2026

At Broadway Backwards, Broadway’s original Dreamgirl Jennifer Holliday filled the Gershwin Theatre with powerhouse vocals and a life-affirming message, delivering a triumphant twist on “I Am What I Am” from La Cage aux Folles. 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. Broadway Backwards Creator Robert Bartley served as director, writer and choreographer. Read more about the 20th anniversary of Broadway Backwards at https://broadwaycares.org/backwards2026