The Chicago-based Sarah Siddons Society has announced that Broadway legend Betty Buckley will accept the “Actor of the Year” Award at this year’s gala fundraiser. The Tony winner is leading the first national tour of HELLO, DOLLY! in the title role, which will play Broadway In Chicago’s Oriental Theatre October 23 – November 17. She also currently co-stars in AMC’s hit series “Preacher.”

“The Sarah Siddons Society is honored to name Betty Buckley as our 2018 Actor of Year awardee. With this well-deserved recognition, Ms. Buckley joins an illustrious group of stage legends recognized by the Sarah Siddons Society during the past 66 years. We couldn’t be more excited than to honor her remarkable contributions to the American stage with this year’s award”, said Marty Balogh, President of the Society.

The award will be presented as part of an evening with a cocktail reception, dinner and awards ceremony, along with a silent auction. Honorary Chair of the Event is Broadway in Chicago Vice President, Eileen LaCario. Bill Zwecker of Fox TV will act as Master of Ceremonies, and entertainment will be provided by Chicago performers to be announced. All proceeds of the event benefit the Sarah Siddons Scholarship Fund.

Since its inception over 65 years ago, the Sarah Siddons Society has granted scholarships to theater students from the city’s top theatre programs at Northwestern University, DePaul University, Columbia College Chicago and Roosevelt University.

For more information, visit sarahsiddonssociety.org.