Broadway's official game night stacked the deck with stars, industry power players and spirited fans on May 18, 2026, for a high-energy evening of poker at New York's historic Edison Ballroom that raised a record-shattering $989,528 for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.
Produced by and benefiting Broadway Cares, this year's event welcomed the largest number of players in its history, bringing the tournament's lifetime total to nearly $3.7 million across nine editions.
Thomas S. Perakos returned as the event's first-ever presenting sponsor. His pioneering multi-year commitment of more than $1 million focuses exclusively on funding health care, health insurance, mental health support, counseling and emergency assistance for all members of the Broadway and theater community during their critical times of need.
"What a fabulous evening for such a wonderful charity. I could not be more honored to partner with Broadway Cares to provide healthcare assistance to those in need in our Broadway family and community. I can't wait for next year!"
Thomas S. Perakos, Presenting Sponsor
"Broadway Bets has always carried an incredible energy, but this year the joy and excitement in the room felt absolutely electric. Together, they shattered fundraising records to help provide meals, medication, health care and hope to those who need it most."
Danny Whitman, Executive Director, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS
The evening drew a royal flush of stars from across the Broadway community, with theater owners, producers, performers and fans all taking their seats at the table. Photos from the event are at broadwaycares.org/bets2026photos.