(L to R) bergenPAC's Performing Arts School's student dancers with Heather Federman and Honoree Wendy Federman.

(ENGLEWOOD, NJ) -- Bergen Performing Arts Center (bergenPAC) in Englewood, New Jersey, recently hosted a special event to celebrate Women's History Month. The luncheon honored Wendy Federman, a distinguished 15-time Tony Award-winning theatre and film producer, for her remarkable achievements.

During her acceptance speech, Wendy Federman shared that when she began her career on Broadway, she faced challenges in being taken seriously, and people often preferred to speak to the men at the company. Wendy Federman said, “I vow to continue to promote women's rights and issues in all aspects of my life and career, saying that women are powerful and can do anything.”

The event included esteemed guests such as New Jersey's First Lady Tammy Murphy and ABC 7-NY News Reporter Nina Pineda who served as the event’s emcee.

(L to R) ABC-NY 7 Reporter Nina Pineda who served as event emcee, Honoree Wendy Federman, 15-time Tony Award-winning theater and film producer, First Lady Tammy Murphy, bergenPAC's Board Chair, Valerie V. Huttle and bergenPAC's Director of Development, Amy Ferrante-Martin.

The festivities included a captivating performance by Violinist Kersten Stevens and a presentation by Performing Arts School students, including vocalist Esther Lee, who started her dance journey at the bergenPAC at the age of eight. Esther was a full scholarship student recipient before she graduated from the program at age 18. She then received a BFA in dance and completed her master's in childhood education from Ailey/Fordham University. At age 26, she is now giving back to the Bergen PAC's dance program by teaching the next generation of dancers. Esther performed "If I Loved You" from Carousel, one of Wendy's productions.

Guests also enjoyed a performance by bergenPAC's preprofessional Dance Ensemble, choreographed & led by Artistic Director of Dance, Roberta Mathes. The dancers performed Lady Marmalade, from another Wendy Federman production, Moulin Rouge.

Valerie V. Huttle, the Chair of bergenPAC, said, "The Women's Luncheon supports the Performing Arts School's mission to expand its programs for students with special needs and to conduct outreach initiatives for students in public schools across New Jersey. The funds raised from this event will enhance the programs at the Performing Arts School and contribute towards upgrading its facilities where future stars train."

Founded in 2003, Bergen Performing Arts Center (bergenPAC) is a cultural hub in Englewood, New Jersey, offering a variety of world-class entertainment. Home to the renowned Performing Arts School, bergenPAC provides innovative arts education to thousands of students annually. With a rich history and commitment to community enrichment, bergenPAC continues to inspire and engage audiences of all ages.

Photos by Jeremy Smith