Lights, Camera, Buffalo! On September 18, the Buffalo Theatre District is set to shine brighter than ever as it pays tribute to the exceptional talents of award-winning actress Roslyn Ruff. The star-studded ceremony will unfold at the corner of Main and Tupper Streets at 5:30 PM, marking the spectacular kickoff event for the 40th Anniversary of Curtain Up! This anniversary celebration is dedicated to the official opening of Buffalo’s 2023-2024 theatre season. And who better to host this momentous occasion than the acclaimed and Tony-nominated Stephen McKinley Henderson, a past inductee himself.
Buffalo native Roslyn Ruff has captivated audiences on both the stage and screen, garnering immense acclaim for her remarkable performances in August Wilson’s masterpieces, including “Seven Guitars,” which won her an Obie Award, and “The Piano Lesson.” Particularly noteworthy is her portrayal in “The Piano Lesson,” which earned her the prestigious 2013 Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding Lead Actress, firmly establishing her as a formidable presence in the world of theater.
“The Theatre District Association and Curtain Up! proudly acknowledge Roslyn’s remarkable achievements and contributions to the arts, as she rightfully takes her place among Buffalo’s brightest stars, including Stephan McKinley Henderson, Christine Baranski, Saul Elkin, Javier Bustillos, A.R Gurney, Michael Bennett, Lorna C. Hill, and many more. This induction serves as both a tribute to her talent and a celebration of her extraordinary career,” says Curtain Up! Chair and Executive Director of Shakespeare in Delaware Park, Lisa Ludwig.
In addition to attending the ceremony, all are encouraged to enjoy an evening performance at one of our local theaters. A street party will kick off on Main Street at 10:00 PM, featuring live performances, delectable cuisine, and dancing. This festive gathering not only celebrates the arts but also serves as a fundraiser for the Theatre District Association, an organization dedicated to supporting local theaters and arts initiatives, setting the stage for an exceptional season ahead.
More information on the events and performances can be found here on the Theatre District’s website.
All are warmly invited to join the ceremony on September 18, as the Buffalo Theatre District unites to honor Roslyn Ruff and her illustrious career, which stands as a testament to Buffalo’s substantial contributions to the realm of theatre.
“We are thrilled to welcome Roslyn back home this September. Her career exemplifies Buffalo’s incredible impact on theatre, extending not only within WNY but across the entire country,” expresses Chris Handley, Executive Artistic Director of Alleyway Theatre and President of the Theatre District Association.
Let the curtains rise and let us enthusiastically applaud this exceptional talent as she rightfully takes her place among the stars!