As the golden light of a summer evening in the Hamptons gives way to cocktails and conversation, guests will gather in a setting inspired by the timeless glamor of Monte Carlo and the sunny elegance of the South of France. Hosted by Princess Grace Foundation Director Richard Kirshenbaum and his wife, this intimate evening of the Crown Patron will celebrate culture, creativity and community while honoring the enduring legacy of Princess Grace of Monaco and her vision of nurturing the next generation of performing artists.
More than a social occasion, the gathering serves as an introduction to the extraordinary mission of the Princess Grace Foundation-USA and the remarkable artists whose careers it helped launch. Winners of the film, theater and dance awards will join trustees, Crown patrons, Guild members, Monegasque officials and distinguished guests, creating the type of meaningful exchange that has long defined the Foundation’s unique community. The evening will also honor this year’s winner of the Princess Grace Awards, renowned filmmaker and director John M. Chu, whose artistic journey began as a winner of the Princess Grace Awards before gaining international fame.
The evening reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to cultivating a community of supporters who understand the essential role of the arts in society. At a time when creative pursuits can too easily be overshadowed by more immediate concerns, the Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to champion emerging talent and ensure that artistic excellence continues to flourish for generations to come.
For Richard Kirshenbaum, hosting this special evening in Sagaponack is both a personal honor and a meaningful way to share the Foundation’s inspiring work with new audiences. Before the summer evening, Social Lifestyle Magazine sat down with Kirshenbaum to discuss the vision behind the event, the importance of fostering connections through the arts, and why Princess Grace’s dream of supporting exceptional young artists remains as relevant today as ever.
It’s an honor to speak with Richard Kirshenbaum ahead of Summer Evening and share his thoughts with readers of Social Lifestyle Magazine:
Meghan Forte: What inspired the vision for this summer cocktail?
Richard Kirshenbaum: This is a Princess Grace Foundation patron event: a summer cocktail party designed to introduce new people to the Foundation’s mission and its grants supporting the next generation of performing artists, while honoring the legacy of the late Princess Grace of Monaco. The theme and visual cues are inspired by the summers of Monte Carlo and the South of France, bringing a feeling of elegance and simplicity to the evening.
Meghan Strong: How does this event reflect the spirit and mission of the Princess Grace-USA Foundation?
Richard Kirshenbaum: The event brings together past and present laureates from cinema, dance and theater, as well as administrators, Crown patrons, young members of the Guild and Monegasque officials. By connecting guests directly with this community, they gain a real understanding of the Foundation’s mission: to nurture and support the next generation of great performing artists.
Meghan Forte: What makes this event unique?
Richard Kirshenbaum: This is a social summer cocktail. It is designed to feel relaxed and inviting, allowing for bonding in a more informal setting between friends.
Meghan Forte: Why was Sagaponack chosen as the setting for this gathering?
Richard Kirshenbaum: My wife Dana and I wanted to host an event in the Hamptons for the Foundation. It was the perfect setting, intimate and ideal for bringing people together in the summer spirit.
Meghan Forte: How important are intimate gatherings like this in building long-term support for the arts?
Richard Kirshenbaum: Social gatherings like this are extremely important. They create opportunities for like-minded people to connect, while also educating guests about the work of the Foundation and its extraordinary list of honorees. These personal connections help build lasting support.
Meghan Forte: Why is it especially urgent to support emerging artists right now?
Richard Kirshenbaum: With so many pressing needs in the world, the arts can sometimes be neglected. Yet it is crucial that we continue to invest in and support arts and culture, ensuring that new voices and creative talents have the opportunity to flourish.
Meghan Forte: If this event inspires one lasting memory for guests, what do you hope it will be?
Richard Kirshenbaum: I hope guests leave with a greater appreciation for the legacy of Princess Grace of Monaco and her vision for supporting the next generation of performing artists, and feel inspired to be part of pursuing that dream.
At the end of the evening, his legacy will live on, driven by new connections, shared inspiration and a renewed appreciation for the arts. What begins as a summer gathering in Sagaponack will become something more lasting: an invitation to be part of a legacy that champions creativity and nurtures future talent. In this sense, the evening is not an end, but a beginning, one that continues to bring Princess Grace’s vision to life for generations to come.
Thanks to Mr. Richard Kirshenbaum for taking the time to speak with Social Lifestyle Magazine. His continued dedication to the arts is truly inspiring and helps create meaningful opportunities for the next generation of artists.
Richard Kirshenbaum Professional Website
Richard Kirshenbaum Instagram Profile
The Princess Grace USA Foundation Website
