On May 18, 2023, Broadway star Idina Menzel and hip-hop legend Darryl McDaniels, known as DMC of Run-DMC, joined forces for a memorable event titled “Celebrate This Way” in New York City. This collaborative effort not only highlighted their musical talents but also aimed to bolster their charitable initiatives. Together, their organisations—Menzel’s A BroaderWay and McDaniels’ The Felix Organization—managed to raise over $1 million to support foster youth.
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Menzel, celebrated for her iconic portrayal of Elphaba in the musical *Wicked*, and McDaniels, a pioneer in the rap scene, both share a passion for philanthropic work. In a recent interview, McDaniels described the event as “a collaboration of purpose,” noting how their organisations have united to address the needs of foster children across the country. Their partnership began in the summer of 2025 when they launched Camp Felix A BroaderWay, an initiative that merges resources to create enriching experiences for young people.
Both A BroaderWay and The Felix Organization boast rich histories of commitment to youth development. McDaniels co-founded The Felix Organization in 2006 with Sheila Jaffe, an Emmy-award winning casting director. Their shared backgrounds as adoptees motivated them to ensure all foster youth had access to a supportive environment. From a single summer camp in Putnam Valley 20 years ago, the organisation has expanded to eight camps nationwide, including the newly established Camp Felix A BroaderWay in New York City.
Similarly, Menzel founded A BroaderWay in 2010 to empower young women through the arts. Initially starting as a summer camp, the organisation has grown to include a variety of educational programs, performances, and initiatives creating pathways for graduates into the professional world. Both organisations have demonstrated a commitment to nurturing the potential of foster youth through creative expression.
The “Celebrate This Way” event included a spectacular lineup of performances by campers from Camp Felix A BroaderWay. Menzel and McDaniels welcomed their young performers with enthusiastic applause, and the joy in the room was palpable. McDaniels highlighted the impact of seeing these young women perform, stating, “The highlight of the night was definitely seeing the girls from A BroaderWay perform. That’s why we do this!”
The evening was not only about performances but also featured a live auction that captivated attendees with its exclusive offerings. Items included a reservation at Rao’s, a renowned Italian restaurant, and a luxurious getaway to Napa Valley. However, the most exciting auction items were the opportunities to sing on stage with Menzel and McDaniels, drawing considerable attention and competitive bidding.
Menzel opened her segment with a hauntingly beautiful rendition of “Defying Gravity,” transitioning seamlessly into a duet of “For Good” with a fortunate auction winner. The audience was treated to an unforgettable experience as McDaniels followed suit, inviting two other bidders to join him in belting out classic tracks like “It’s Tricky” and “Walk This Way.” The atmosphere buzzed with energy as the Tribeca Rooftop transformed into an impromptu concert venue.
Reflecting on the stage experience with Menzel, McDaniels remarked, “It was an incredible experience being on stage with Idina!” Their chemistry and shared passion resonated throughout the venue, reinforcing the event’s emotional and charitable significance.
As the night drew to a close, both Menzel and McDaniels showcased their camaraderie by playfully synchronising their head-banging during a powerful finale. The evening not only celebrated artistic talent but also served as a poignant reminder of their mission to provide valuable and enriching opportunities for foster youth. With a vow to continue the impactful work of their organisations, both stars left attendees inspired and motivated to support the cause.
The “Celebrate This Way” event exemplified the power of collaboration through music and philanthropy. By uniting their efforts, Menzel and McDaniels are paving the way for a brighter future for countless young people, proving that the arts can indeed be a force for good.